Wish I Was Here Movie Review

SYNOPSIS:  Director Zach Braff’s follow-up to his indie breakout hit “Garden State” is a comedy telling the story of a thirty-something man who finds himself at major crossroads, which forces him to examine his life, his career, and his family.  

I was lucky enough to attend the advanced screening of this insightful movie and also view the Q&A with co-writer Adam Braff at the end of the screening.  Wish I Was Here moved me to tears while leaving me with three important messages.    

Message #1:  If your dream isn’t working, find another dream that’s a better fit.

Braff plays struggling actor, Aidan Bloom, whose father is very sick and can no longer pay the grandchildren’s tuition to a religious private school.  It is brought up several times that Aidan should give up on acting, even if it his dream in life, because he is unable to provide for his family and has taken advantage of his wife’s support. 

Message #2:  Tell the people you love, you love them.

A particularly touching scene in the movie is between Mandy Patinkin and Kate Hudson who play Aidan’s father and wife, respectively.  As Patinkin lies in the hospital bed, Hudson reminds him of his responsibility to let his sons know how he feels about them.  Life is hectic and we sometimes take the people we love for granted assuming they know how we feel.  Make sure they know it.  Tell them you love them because one day you may not get the chance.

Message #3:  Life is happening all around you. 

In a scene where Aidan’s daughter shaves her head on her Uncle’s watch, Aidan angrily gives his brother a wakeup call telling him that “life is happening all around you”.  Life is and it goes by fast so enjoy it now.  Wake up.  Connect.  Take that trip.  Create a bucket list.  Don’t waste a day.  Get moving.  Wish I Was Here will surely inspire you too.  Oh, and don’t forget to pack the tissue.

Opens July 18.