Zach Braff is reuniting the beloved bands featured in the soundtrack of his iconic film Garden State to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The one-night concert is scheduled for March 29, 2025, at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The lineup includes The Shins, Iron & Wine, Frou Frou, Colin Hay, Thievery Corporation, Remy Zero, Cary Brothers, Bonnie Somerville, and Sophie Barker from Zero 7. Additional special guests will be revealed closer to the event.
The concert will also serve a charitable cause, with proceeds benefiting The Midnight Mission, a Los Angeles-based organization supporting the homeless community.
A Cause Close to Braff’s Heart
Braff admits that pulling the event together wasn’t easy, but the cause inspired him to take on the challenge. “When I was approached about the 20th anniversary concert, I wasn’t sure how we’d get all the bands together,” Braff shared. “But when it became a benefit for The Midnight Mission, I knew it was something I had to do. Helping address homelessness in Los Angeles gave me the motivation to bring these incredible artists together.”
Reflecting on Garden State and Why There Won’t Be a Sequel
Looking back on the making of Garden State, Braff reminisced about the early days on set. The film, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival 20 years ago. Braff recalls: “I don’t feel any different until I see pictures from Sundance and think, ‘Wow, I look like my own son.’”
Despite the movie’s enduring popularity, Braff has no plans for a sequel. “I’ve been approached to do everything from a sequel to a Broadway musical, but I’ve always said no,” he explained. “The film holds such a special place in people’s hearts, and I don’t want to do anything that might tarnish that.”
First Day on Set: Nerves and the Ecstasy Party Scene
Braff’s first day directing Garden State was carefully planned to boost his confidence as a first-time filmmaker. “I asked the assistant director to schedule an easy day so I’d look like a hero,” he laughed. “We shot the scene where my character walks into a house party. But the next day, we filmed the intense ecstasy party scene, and I was so nervous. I didn’t know how to direct actors to act high at 8 a.m., but everyone just went for it, and the energy on set was amazing.”
Meeting Natalie Portman and Instant Chemistry
Braff also recalled meeting Natalie Portman for the first time at the Newsroom Café in Los Angeles. “She was in town from Harvard, and I was so nervous to meet her. But we hit it off right away, bonding over our shared love of theater and both having attended Stagedoor Manor performing arts camp,” Braff said. He was thrilled when Portman agreed to the role of Sam, a character whose on-screen chemistry with Braff’s character was crucial to the film’s success.
Despite his nerves about working with Portman, Braff said she made the process easy. “She had worked on massive films but understood that we were making Garden State on a shoestring budget in 25 days. She was completely on board and made the experience fun for everyone.”
Why Los Angeles and Not New Jersey?
While Garden State is famously set in New Jersey, Braff explained why the anniversary concert is happening in Los Angeles. “I live here now, and I’m very aware of the homelessness crisis in the city,” Braff said. “The Midnight Mission is doing incredible work to help people get off the streets, get treatment, and rebuild their lives. I wanted to do something to give back to my community.” However, he teased that if the concert is a huge success, there could be future events elsewhere, even in New Jersey.
Big Surprises and Special Guests
In addition to the bands on the original Garden State soundtrack, Braff hinted at some exciting surprises for the anniversary concert. “There are two songs we want to include, but the original artists aren’t available. We’ve got some amazing connections and are planning ‘holy shit’ moments with special guests covering those songs,” Braff revealed.
Although Portman and other cast members, like Jean Smart and Peter Sarsgaard, have expressed interest in attending, their appearance will depend on scheduling. “Natalie said she’ll try to be there if her schedule allows. We’re going to make this event unforgettable,” Braff promised.
Scrubs Revival on the Horizon?
Beyond Garden State, Braff also addressed recent rumors about a Scrubs revival. Co-creator Bill Lawrence has hinted that it’s becoming more likely, and Braff is on board. “I’d love to get back together with my friends for 10 or 12 episodes. It sounds like a dream to laugh with everyone again,” he said.
A Memorable Milestone
As Braff prepares for the Garden State anniversary concert, he looks back with pride on the film’s impact. The Grammy award he won for the film’s soundtrack sits proudly on his mantle, reminding him of the lasting legacy of the movie that continues to resonate with fans 20 years later.