The Pursuit of Happyness

Posted by Brian C. Gibson (brian@filmschoolrejects.com) on November 28, 2006

Release Date: December 15, 2006

The Pursuit of Happyness is a powerful story that dances around the heartbreaks and victories of life, while being anchored by a inspiring performance from Will Smith. Smith and Happyness have made one of the best films of the year.

For those who are not familiar with the story of Christopher Gardner, I do not wish to spoil it for you. But, since you are on the internet and might want to know exactly what the film is about, I will say that it is a true life rags-to-riches story.

I have to be honest by saying that I had no initial interest in seeing this film. However, when leaving the theater, the film left me with a flurry of feelings. The combination of a great story, superb performances, and the perfect father-son chemistry left me in awe. What was displayed on screen didn’t come off as acting, it was a genuine display of emotion and love for oneself and one’s children.

Will Smith has had his share of great roles. Let’s face it, he went from Fresh Prince to blockbuster phenom quicker than most of us could say Bad Boys. It’s not a secret though, to say that Smith hasn’t really shown any range as an actor since Ali. Until now. The performance of Smith alone is sure to create some of that coveted Oscar buzz. The surprise of the film though, came in the supporting role of Jaden Smith. I’m sure that performing wasn’t difficult considering his role was to act alongside his father. The chemistry between the two actors was flawless. Their interactions on screen were filled with an authenticity that could only come from their life experiences off-screen together.

The film was beautifully paced with equal amounts of laughs and tenderness. Director Gabriele Muccino was faced with the task of transforming Smith into a real man with real life problems, and creating a heartfelt relationship between the film’s star and it’s audience. For most films, the biggest hurdle is finding a story and an actor who can relate to their audience. For Happyness, there were no hurdles or complications. The story radiated off the screen and flowed into the hearts of the audience quicker than most of us could say Oscar.

I will highly recommend this film to anyone of any age or situation in life. No demographic can claim this film as their own, this story is a poignant message to anyone who has ever fallen down in life.

The Upside: Humor, tenderness, and inspiration make this a must see film for anyone who has ever had a bad day.

The Downside: May come off as just another “based on a true story” Hollywood jobs.

On the Side: Speedcubing champions Tyson Mao and Toby Mao were hired to teach Will Smith how to solve a Rubik’s Cube

Final Grade: A