Garden State
Impressive first feature for triple threater Zack Braff. While Braff the actor is reasonably charming playing a slightly less manic version of his character from Scrubs, it is his polished screenplay and sure handed direction that make me anxious to see what he'll come up with next. As anything other than a debut effort Garden State might seem a workmanlike effort - the story lacks depth and the characters are fairly superficial - but considering this is Braff's first outing it's a highly creditable piece of work.
The very best thing about the film is the way Natalie Portman lights up every frame she appears in - with Ms. Portman the film shines - wthout her it's an indie version of a prime time soap. Also of note are the small, but perfectly formed, supporting turns from the likes of Jean smart, Ron Leibman and Ian Holm.