Garden State proved itself a brilliant writing and directorial debut by Zach Braff. A dark and obscure tale revealed that Natalie Portman actually can act, despite what I’d seen previously. This is certianly due to solid writing and directing - she has some serious thanks to give. Oddly, she’s not even listed in the credits on IMDB…guess someone is asleep at the keyboard.

The movie left me feeling odd. I wound up a little fidgety several times and the story - while sad - wasn’t quite enough to make me cry. Then again, I’m a heartless old woman. I’d definitely classify it as “dark”…or an art film. Either way. You know me…I loves me some comedy.

Just the same, I recognize the talent in writing and directing and the acting wasn’t nearly as bad as in blockbusters like Charlies Angels.

The solid B+ is brought up to an A with the inclusion of the kick ass soundtrack. Plus, the boy has a blog…and it’s FUNNY. Brings it all to the brink of an A+