August 20: Garden State (2004)

Milestone Years

• 20th Anniversary: August 20, 2024
• 25th Anniversary: August 20, 2029
• 30th Anniversary: August 20, 2034

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Zach Braff drew from his own feelings of isolation and malaise—writing and directing *Garden State* as a way to articulate a depressive period of life. The story reflects his real-life emotions and experiences returning home after personal loss.

You Might Not Know

• Zach Braff’s feature debut, based on his real-life feelings of depression and suburban malaise.
• The budget was roughly $2.5 million, and it grossed nearly $36 million worldwide.
• The soundtrack earned a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture.
• The title refers to New Jersey’s nickname and a poetic line from Andrew Marvell’s “The Garden.”
• Artists from the soundtrack held a benefit concert at the Greek Theatre in March 2025 to support charity.

Food Ideas

• “Shins”-inspired indie rock latte (mocha with hazelnut syrup)
• New Jersey diner‑style breakfast board—bagels, Taylor ham, salty coffee
• “Garden State”-green salad with local veggies and honey vinaigrette
• Retro mid‑2000s sweets—“Let Go” lemon bars
• Eclectic mix board—international cheeses and charcuterie à la Sam’s quirky charm

Ways to Celebrate

• Watch *Garden State* with friends and share memories of first discovering it.
• Queue the soundtrack and reminisce over “New Slang” and other iconic tracks.
• Host a karaoke or sing‑along to favorite songs from the film’s soundtrack.
• Decorate with indie‑music motifs—floral wallpapers, mixtape-style playlists.
• Discuss the film’s themes of healing and emotional awakening afterward.

Filming Locations

The film was shot in and around Zach Braff’s hometown in New Jersey—including South Orange, Cranford, Maplewood, Newark, Tenafly, Wallington, and more. Many of the spots are real and visitable today, capturing suburban New Jersey’s authentic landscapes.