This is a movie that I put off watching for a long time. I'm glad I finally saw it. The story revolves around a dysfunctional family, former high school friends who are losers, and a young woman who comes into the life of a man and changes his life. Neither he nor she has answers, but they resolve to work on life together. In the end, that's a hopeful outcome.

An earthy and endearing movie. For someone who experience things like depression or just a desire to do something no ones done before, this might strike a nerve with you.

I miss the early 2000s when liking garden state and vampire weekend would get me girls, truly simpler times.

The ultimate finding yourself rom com. Great cast, writing it poetry, cinematography has so many memorable shots, the perfected manic pixie dream girl character. The best soundtrack in movies.

The Garden State offers a quirky and fantastic movie that I recommend. The movie is very sad at certain points, and the soundtrack is absolutely amazing. It is heartfelt and personal, with great performances, especially by Natalie Portman and Zach Braff. The theme is great, focusing on finding meaning in the small things in life. The dialogue is humorous and authentic, and the script is well-written. The cinematography captures a sense of melancholy. Ultimately, it’s a touching and memorable journey worth taking.

Some aspects of the story aged terribly over 20 years, but the good stuff holds up pretty well.

Garden State has a vibe and unique feeling to it that I absolutely love. The soundtrack, the tone, the script, it all creates this slightly depressing world, but not in a bad way. This depiction of estrangement, grief and finding purpose is crafted into a beautiful story that I was drawn to. The film is extremely quirky, with moments so strange that they could be off-putting to some. That being said, those moments are what make this movie feel so real. I have always been a fan of Zach Braff's acting, but this made me love his writing and directing as well. Best Character: Sam (the manic pixie dream girl) Best Quote: "It's like you feel homesick for a place that doesn't even exist." - Largeman Best Scene: The Hamster Burial Best Song: "Don't Panic" - Coldplay Watch filtered on VidAngel

This is a classic. Its definitely nostalgia-filled for me, but after going so many years before rewatching I realized that it's also a great film. I've gone from my mid 20s to the early 30s. I love it all the same, yet for different reasons. If it were written, I'd read the book.

A creative look at an effort to come to terms with being alive and oneself. Natalie Portman (Sam) is totally engaging as she sympathetically joins Zach's search for a way to come to terms with his demons. A subtle yet surprisingly powerful romance emerges.

It’s a really good movie

I’d cast Natalie Portman as my GF too.

Marvelous. Wonderful. Lovely. Beautiful. Splendid. OK, just dig out the thesaurus and start with "marvelous" or "splendid." —Seriously, one of the greatest things about this movie is the sheer range of human experience it depicts—and the sheer range of emotions it portrays *and* generates. Unless the synopsis on RT makes you actively wish to not watch it, go ahead and watch this movie now if you can!

couldn't get into it. acting wasn't great and plot lacks depth/ authenticity

Zach Braff's directorial debut is impressive as the picture ponders soulful rehabilitation in confronting the distanced, welcomed past with excelled embodiment, to the assured relatable extent, alongside Natalie Portman's embraced eccentricity that affectively brightens the overall balance. (B)

Weird, depressing characters in a faux-sophisticared comedy called Garden State that has ZERO to do with New Jersey.

My all time pick me up and be happy movie. Ultimate favorite!

Absolutely great. And the soundtrack. OMG

A fun and artsy love story with likeable characters and funny moments. Its lighthearted while being able to approach pretty serious topics and features some genuinely emotional moments. There are interesting side storylines involving the side characters alongside the sort of bizarre quest in the final act.

Natalie's beyond stunning acting made up for Zach's beyond lackluster performance.

This is what quality independent filmmaking is all about