Music & Film: Garden State


This week, I'm wasting no time in introducing you to one of my favorite films of all time; Garden State.  While the movie itself does a great job of portraying the ups and downs of mental illnesses and the drastic over-medicating of our society, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised with it's musical accompaniment.  As the director, Zach Braff worked tirelessly to handpick songs that directly corresponded to the scene at hand, and was righteously awarded a Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture, Television, or Other Visual Media for his efforts.  But just in case that doesn't motivate you to see the movie, I'm going to breakdown some of the best movie/musical moments below.  So if you don't have two hours to dedicate to watching this film, I'd probably refrain from reading the rest of this post, as it's sure as hell going to reel you in!


Although a relatively easy-going song, Zero 7's "In the Waiting Line" perfectly captures the conflicting nature that exists between Large and his surrounding environment.  Thus, while he's taking medication for his 'disorder', Large struggles to find passion while caught in this dream-like state.  This completely corresponds with the methodical, yet captivating music of the Zero 7's, as they will no doubt cast you into a delightful ambiance of synthesizers and downtempo jazz.


I've featured Simon & Garfunkel before, and for good reason.  Not many other bands/duos have the chemistry and the ability to write such captivating lyrics so easily, and their song "The Only Living Boy in New York" seems to be made for this scene.  There's just something about standing in the rain on the edge of the abyss that shout's EMPOWERING, LIBERATING, and INDEPENDENT.  So just watch the scene, then you'll know what I'm talking about.


As for the ending scene, there simply aren't words to describe the brilliance and harmony of this moment.  So, while Frou Frou's song "Let Go" is no doubt a foot tapper, it also holds a great philosophical meaning which urges us to seize all the life has to offer.  Thus, while many others are too busy writing their own tragedy, we as human beings most learn to live more in the moment, and stop worrying about the scripts that society has laid out for us.  Hopefully this will represent an empowering moment for you guys as well, as I truly believe that this world needs a little more individualism and spontaneity.

P.S. While I did not mention any other songs, I would definitely urge everyone to check out The Shins.  They had a number of tunes in the film, and truly deserve any bit of attention they receive!




2 comments

  1. One of the best soundtracks to one of the best films

  2. couldn't agree more with Jon. never get tired of this album or movie. this movie and soundtrack remind me of college and every time I hear the shins I immediately think of garden state. the chute's too narrow was a great album.

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