"This is love"

Rating: Null/10 (24 July 2004)

Beautifully written, perfectly performed. There are moments of humor so unexpected--and sometimes inappropriate--you're not sure you should laugh. The scene where Large recounts the simple kindness of a mother and realized "this is love" is particuarly sweet. Kudos to Zach Braff for virtually erasing all traces of his SCRUBS character and not relying on mugging or easy laughs. And for writing an intelligent, thoughtful script that sums up so many feelings and emotions that can't be put into words. Peter Sarsgaard is also impressive as the shifty friend who may not treat others well, but treats himself much worse. It's also nice to see Natalie Portman playing her age, rather than a woman wise beyond her years, for once. Great work all around.