Zach Braff Reveals the Comedy Classic That Raised the Bar for Film

Though Zach Braff has carved out a reputation as an indie filmmaker with movies like Garden State and last year’s A Good Person, for many, he’ll always be remembered as JD from Scrubs. The hit sitcom, set in the fictional Sacred Heart Hospital, became a staple of early 2000s television, earning a devoted following and a place among the era’s most beloved comedies. Its influence lingered for years, with fans quoting lines and referencing moments long after the show ended. No matter how much Braff’s career evolves, the shadow of that iconic role still follows him.

Given his comedic roots, it’s not surprising that Braff’s favorite film is a comedy. But the fact that it’s a Stanley Kubrick project offers a glimpse into his deeper cinematic ambitions. While he’s often associated with humor, Braff’s appreciation for film runs much deeper. He points to Dr. Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb as a standout, saying,

“It set a very high bar for brilliant satire,”

and adding that it excels in

“acting, cinematography, production design, everything.”

Comedy Mastery and Lasting Impact

Some might assume that listing Dr. Strangelove among one’s favorites is just a way to sound sophisticated, like mentioning Citizen Kane. But the truth is, Kubrick’s film genuinely deserves its reputation. Unlike some classics that can feel dated or heavy, Dr. Strangelove remains sharp, hilarious, and completely engaging. Even viewers who aren’t typically drawn to so-called “must-see” films find themselves captivated by its wit and relevance. While other Kubrick works like 2001: A Space Odyssey are often praised for their technical achievements, they can be a tough watch for some. In contrast, Dr. Strangelove is endlessly rewatchable.

Braff himself admits,

“Well, I mean, come on. This is a masterpiece. I don’t know what to say that hasn’t already been said by many people way smarter than me.”

The film’s reputation speaks for itself, but for those who haven’t seen it, the story centers on a deranged U.S. general who orders a nuclear strike on the Soviet Union, and the frantic efforts of government officials to prevent disaster. Released in 1964, it brilliantly lampooned the nuclear anxieties of the Cold War era.

From Serious Drama to Satirical Genius

What’s especially remarkable is that Dr. Strangelove was originally conceived as a straight-laced Cold War thriller, adapted from Peter George’s novel Red Alert. Kubrick, however, saw the absurdity in humanity’s obsession with self-destruction and transformed the material into one of cinema’s greatest satires. This shift was made possible not just by Kubrick’s vision and co-writer Terry Southern’s sharp script, but also by the film’s extraordinary cast—most notably Peter Sellers.

Sellers’ performance is a masterclass in comedic acting, as he takes on three, nearly four, distinct roles, each with its own quirks and accents. His ability to juggle multiple characters, especially his spot-on German accent, is nothing short of brilliant. The film’s humor and intelligence set a standard that few comedies have matched since. As Braff notes, its excellence can make other comedies seem lackluster by comparison, but that shouldn’t deter anyone from experiencing its genius.