So much potential

Rating: 7/10 (18 January 2005)

For a first time writer/director, I was impressed with Zach Braff and am pleased to see he has written more. At times the direction felt a little forced as if trying too hard to be "artsy" (slow mo.'s etc.) Many of the angles and shots were an obvious attempt to be an indy film but the writing was witty, poignant, and at times downright genius. I felt that some issues should have been focused on more like his relationship with his dad and the influence of music. Those points were rather vague when they should have been a main point of interest.
Of course Natalie just lights up the screen, but Zach's performance was the stand out to me. His struggle with how to act and feel was truly affective.
By far the greatest aspect of the film is the soundtrack. You just can't go wrong with The Shins and Nick Drake. It really will "change your life".