Garden State is a 2004 film, currently available on Amazon Prime video. The story of the movie is written and directed by Zach Braff.
It follows the story of Andrew Largeman, a struggling actor. Garden State soundtrack has achieved significant acclaim. With Simon & Garfunkel and Coldplay, the 13-song mix introduced The Shins and Frou Frou.
Braff selected the songs, which fit the film's story and resonated with listeners. The Garden State soundtrack was a Grammy winner for the category of Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Film, TV or Other Visual Media.
Garden State follows struggling actor Andrew Largeman back to New Jersey after his mother's death. With old friends and quirky young woman Sam, Andrew navigates grief, emotional detachment and self-discovery. He admits to paralyzing his mother and struggling with his psychiatrist father's medication.
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Andrew confronts his father, forgives him and quits medication after bonding with Sam. Andrew values his Sam relationship. He stays with her to rebuild his life after understanding, ending in a touching airport reunion.
The official synopsis of the movie says:
"After many years away, television bit part actor Andrew Largeman returns to his small hometown in New Jersey to attend his mother's funeral. There he is confronted by various aspects of the life he left behind, including his overbearing father.
"Largeman also meets compulsive liar and amateur musician Sam, with whom he feels an immediate connection. Together with several other figures from his past, Largeman heals old wounds and forges new friendships."
Garden State soundtrack: All songs in the movie
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1) Don't Panic by Coldplay
As the film begins, Don't Panic's soothing melody and reflective lyrics match Andrew's chaos. The song previews the introspective and emotional journey ahead.
2) Caring Is Creepy by The Shins
This track by The Shins underscores the scene where Andrew reconnects with his old life. He feels that the upbeat tempo and haunting vocals perfectly match the mix of nostalgia and uncertainty.
3) Zero 7: In the Waiting Line
Zero 7's In the Waiting Line provides a dreamy backdrop to one of the film's more contemplative moments in The Garden State. Its relaxed vibe mirrors the introspection Andrew experiences as he navigates his way through old and new relationships.
4) New Slang by The Shins
Sam calls New Slang a life-changing song. This folk-inspired melody of the film and heartfelt lyrics capture its search for meaning and connection.
5) I Just Don't Think I'll Ever Get Over You by Colin Hay
Colin Hay's melancholic tune reflects the underlying sadness in Andrew's journey. This music relates to anyone who has struggled with loss and the difficulty of moving forward.
6) Blue Eyes by Cary Brothers
Blue Eyes is a sentimental love song that plays during a tender moment between Andrew and Sam. Cary Brothers' acoustic style adds a layer of warmth and intimacy to their developing relationship.
7) Fair by Remy Zero
Fair features a swelling chorus and emotional intensity that perfectly matches the scene where Andrew confesses his feelings to Sam. The song's raw emotion complements the vulnerability of the moment.
8) One of These Things First by Nick Drake
One of These Things First by Nick Drake plays during a reflective scene. Its wistful lyrics and gentle melody echo with Andrew's internal struggles and what-could-have-been scenarios.
9) Lebanese Blonde by Thievery Corporation
Thievery Corporation's Lebanese Blonde adds a unique, dreamy quality to the soundtrack with its sitar and bass fusion. Its distinct style enhances the film's eclectic musical landscape.
10) The Only Living Boy in New York by Simon & Garfunkel
Simon & Garfunkel's classic song plays during a pivotal moment. The mix of its hopeful yet lonely tone matches with Andrew's feelings of isolation and his search for belonging.
11) Iron & Wine's Such Great Heights
The cover of Such Great Heights by Iron & Wine is a delicate, acoustic rendition. It brings a sense of calm and beauty to the film. Its gentle rhythm complements the scenes of introspection and connection.
12) Frou Frou: Let Go
Let Go by Frou Frou features Imogen Heap's breathy vocals and a dramatic cello. It creates a powerful soundtrack for Andrew's moments of realization and acceptance. The uplifting lyrics of the song encourage the listeners to move forward and embrace change.
13) Bonnie Somerville: Winding Road
Winding Road by Bonnie Somerville closes the soundtrack on a hopeful note. While less memorable than other tracks, it still encapsulates the end of the journey in The Garden State and the sense of moving towards a brighter future.
The Garden State soundtrack shows the careful curation that went into creating a work that complements the film and stands alone. Each song adds emotion and meaning to the story. Fans of the film and music lovers love this soundtrack, which captures a time when music and storytelling blended.