Wish I Was Here

Wish I Was Here from 2014 is a multi-layered, American comedic drama, directed by Zach Braff. This incredibly heartfelt and emotionally-resonant film tells the story of a man grappling with his identity and the responsibility of adulthood while still clinging to the dreams of his youth. With Braff at the helm playing the lead character alongside talented actors like Joey King and Pierce Gagnon, the film is both an evocative exploration of existential themes and a poignant portrayal of familial dynamics.

Set in contemporary Los Angeles, Wish I Was Here revolves around the lifestyle and circumstances of Aidan Bloom (played by Zach Braff). Aidan is a struggling actor in his mid-thirties, a dreamer who has always sought to live life on his own terms. Financially dependent on his father, he's in a rut, unable to land a part and reduced to going to auditions where he inevitably fails to make an impression. He is married to Sarah (Kate Hudson), a deeply understanding and fiercely pragmatic woman who supports their family financially with her dull data job, facing her own trials in a hostile work environment.

The couple has two children, Grace (Joey King) and Tucker (Pierce Gagnon). Grace, a wise and precocious teenager is an ardent believer while her younger brother, Tucker is a naive yet eccentric child. They are both homeschooled, originally for religious purposes but continued due to the family's financial strain.

The plot takes a profound and reflective turn when Aidan's father Gabe (played by Mandy Patinkin) reveals that he is gravely ill and can no longer afford to pay for the children's schooling. In the wake of this distressing news, Aidan steps up and attempts to homeschool his children, fostering an unforeseen paradigm shift in his life.

The struggles Aidan faces during this journey of self-discovery is the soul of Wish I Was Here. With no guidance on becoming a tutor for his children, he embarks on a homeschooling venture filled with whimsical detours and hilarious speed bumps. This often chaotic and improvised teaching style leads to shared experiences between Aidan and his children that combine life lessons with personal insights, challenges, and victories.

As the family copes with the imminent loss of their patriarch, each character explores their beliefs, their relationships, and what it means to be part of a family unit. Grace's journey is particularly noteworthy as she navigates the often-messy crossroads of adolescence, testing the limits of her faith and seeking her own individuality apart from her family’s expectations and the constraints of her upbringing. Meanwhile, Tucker's youthful innocence and offbeat view of the world often serve as a useful comedic foil to the film's deeper philosophical moments.

Moreover, Aidan’s tumultuous relationship with his estranged, reclusive brother Noah (played by Josh Gad) adds more depth to the narrative, revealing themes of fracture, forgiveness, and familial responsibility. Their individual journeys towards reconciliation highlights the multifaceted nature of family relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding, acceptance, and unity.

Wish I Was Here artfully blends the exploration of personal dreams and existential musings, successful in prompting the audience to ponder their own life paths. Braff’s witty yet insightful script, along with his brilliant direction, results in a film that is simultaneously touching and humorous.

While the story realistically shows an imperfect individual struggling with the vicissitudes of life, it sharply focuses on the redemptive power of family and the love that binds them together, despite the hurdles they face. The narrative, at its core, conveys that it's okay to not have everything figured out, subtly driving the idea that the journey is more important than the destination.

The film aesthetically does a commendable job too, visually blending the scenes of real-life with the fantastical escapades of Aidan’s imagination. Complimented by a rich and ecstatic soundtrack, the movie creates a haunting atmosphere, making it a delight for the senses.

Wish I Was Here is an insightful examination of life, love, purpose, dreams, and familial bonds. It beautifully adds a dash of whimsical humor to profound life questions, making it a compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic journey.