This movie was by far will smiths best. - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Now you see a different will smith here. Very stunningly inspirational and not the funny will smith your used to seeing. Its really good to see another side of a person. I think he makes this film what it is. The fact that his real son in real life was his son in the movie i think contributed alot to it. A+

Slow - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

this movie is just drags along. it is very boring and dull. Smith is running through the city most of the time. to much of a downer.

Dissapointing - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I went into seeing this movie in the highest of spirits. I went believing that with a story like this and an actor like Will Smith this was a sure thing for a great movie. Unfortunately, I was severely dissappointed. The movie was dragged out for so long that i had to stop myself from falling asleep. THe only thing that kept this movie alive was the unbelievable acting of Will Smith. The ending of the story was an obvious one, and i was upset about how it was handled. The movie could've been much better with a shorter length and a more entertaining storyline.

Truly a painful experience - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This was one of the most depressing films I've seen in quite a while. Don't get me wrong, the acting was superb (Oscar for Smith), but the plodding depressing plot, and weak direction had me looking at my watch hoping the torture would end soon. It might be based on a true story, but the details were, in my view, quite contrived. Solving a Rubix Cube in a short taxi ride, showing up for a competitive interview without a shirt and covered with paint, getting invited to a CEO's box seat because he showed up at his door, losing/finding his stolen bone scanners at least three different times, and the constant running, were just some of the examples of "puhleez, you can't be serious" moments. Except for the ending, the movie was a real "downer." Not something I would recommend for a pleasant evening's entertainment and certainly not recommended for children.

Outstanding - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This movie is so great that you have to see it. The movie is based on a true story of Chris Gardner. A stuggling salesmen trying to provide for him and his son. Will Smith and his son did an outstanding acting job. Will Smith derserves to win the Oscar.The direction is also amazing. I recommend you go and see this movie.You won't be dissapointed. I gave it 3 stars.

Didn't i see this on 60 minutes? boring!!!! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Look, I cannot say how admirable the real-life struggle unfolded for the father and son depicted in the film. I do not have a problem with Hollywood making a film about anyone's life-and-death struggle or from-rags-to-riches tale. But, the simple matter is: this film's theme was shoved down my throat from the beginning to the end. I didn't really want to see nothing but the "struggle" aspects for Will Smith's character and that of his son. The first one-third of the film depicting "the struggle" from rags-to-riches would have been enough. But...and this is where the director/writer/producer fell way short for my tastes: Why didn't we see more of the "post-struggle" "good times" for Smith's character and his son? That's what I wanted to see! I mean, at the VERY END of the film do we see Smith "getting his break -- dream job". What happened to the rest of the 20 years of his life? Oh, that's right, during the credits, a short paragraph regarding his life since the struggle. How quaint! But not a tad of film was devoted to the man's life thereafter. He DID have a wonderful life. I wanted to see more of the brokerage job events...how he made more sales, sold more stock and other financial instruments with success and failure therein; coupled with: did he get back with his wife? What happened to him after the struggle -- that's what is missing. I mean...to have devoted nothing but two hours of film showing SMith running from one bad scenario in the subway or boarding house with his son...trying to sell the rest of his entrepreneurial bone-density inventions...God! I got so tired of "the struggle" after only 30 minutes anyway...but then ... well, as I said, the whole film is about sleeping in the restrooms of the city's subway system...the homeless shelter...begging for food money, et cetera. Not that that is not an admirable endeavour to overcome...but, on film, for this viewer: how much of it is enough?

Heart warming well-acted work - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I'm not typically a fan of this type of movie. Generally, I'm an action or horror type of guy, who likes things fast-paced. This movie is certainly not that, but I'm here to say it's without a doubt worth the money cause it even grasped my attention for the entire length of the movie. This is one of the most well-acted, heart warming and inspiring movies I have ever seen. Will Smith is absolutely fantasic. I cannot even think of the words to describe his performance and his son in both life and the movie is one of the cutest kids I have ever seen. From a guy that doesn't cry very often, all I can say is this one got me. Give it a shot!

Corny - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Chris Gardner is a bright and talented, but marginally employed salesman. Struggling to make ends meet, Gardner finds himself and his five-year-old son evicted from their San Francisco apartment with nowhere to go. When Gardner lands an internship at a prestigious stock brokerage firm, he and his son endure many hardships, including living in shelters, in pursuit of his dream of a better life for the two of them. I thought this movie would have corny acting from the start. However, I do think this is one of Will Smith's serious role scince Ali, and Enemy of State, and there were some touching moments in this movie with Will Smith. I do not like the acting of this movie, in my opinion, I think Will Smith can be an overactor sometimes in certian films. Out of 5, it's a 2.5.

Inspiring + motivating = will smith's role - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

You've got to see this movie! A role designed for Will Smith's BEST. How was he to know he would give his audience a great performace? Pursuit of Happyness can be a bit hard on your "patience" with the story side. All the obstacles he encounters and yet manages to stay positively focused. Watch the movie with a mindset that it's a documentry filmed "movie" style. It's telling a true story about a man who really struggled. Found ways to survive and because of his determination received the end result; SUCCESS!

Depressing - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

You could win the powerball lottery, go out and celebrate by seeing this movie, and you'd still want to kill yourself when it ended. Two hours of depressing, what-could-possibly-go-wrong-next tedium leads up to, at most, a two minute scene at the end where he's all "happy." The acting is great but it no where near pays you back at the end. Just shoot me!

Will smith triumphs in this inspiring, uplifting - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

rags to riches story..This is a Hollywood rarity, a movie with a positive message...Will Smith has a legion of fans of all ages, his appeal transcends race, gender, age, he is one of the few people today in Hollywood who deserves to be called a movie star. he has charisma and charm, and a winning smile..his body of work is impressive, he has played various roles spanning pratically every genre, avoiding being typecast ..here his fans are in for a real treat, he turns in a genuinely effective portrayal of a man at rock bottom, who is determined to succeed, it was a pet project for Will Smith who wanted to bring to the silver screen, Chris Gardner's amazing story ... Will Smith has several scenes,absent dialogue, yet still he conveys the pain, frustration, the character is experiencing . Will Smith's real life son also turns in an effective performance as his on screen son . During the voice over, Will Smith recites a line from the constitution, guaranteed the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. , he understands that happiness isn't guaranteed, but the right to pursue happiness is, the moral of the movie, is when one looks to himself, instead of others or the government, with the right determination, perserverance, and dedication, in America, you can succeed, because the government never makes a citizen rich, but people with ambition and skill can achieve anything . If there is any justice in 2007 Will Smith will win the Oscar.

Are we that stupid? - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I am a stockbroker and got into the business at the same time as Chris. No firm to include Dean Witter hires trainees for six months with NO PAY. All firms will pay you a draw while you study for the series seven and go through their training program. Also, how do you cold call and sign up clients with out a license? The movie assumes we are all nit wits and will believe any thing the director throws at us.

Dreary, depressing and not for kids! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I can't believe I sat through this whole movie. Gee, it has Will Smith and a little kid, so I brought my 11 year old along. What a mistake. Definately NOT for kids. Not really for adults either, not for anyone. Hey, I was almost homeless, twice. Living paycheck to paycheck, lost a job. Has happened to many of us. That is the premise for this rags to riches story, but what a horrible movie to tell this story. It is depressing, non-stop, start to finish. The happy ending does not overcome this, and does not salvage the dreary tone of the entire movie. Plus, it goes on, forever. I couldn't wait to leave, and I kept asking my 11 year old if she wanted to go. She didn't like the movie either, but wanted to stick it out. I felt like I sat through a 5 hour boring epic. Just hated it, and I am definately a Will Smith fan. This is his worst film.

Bit of a downer - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

The movie itself it kind of a downer. Even though they ended the movie well, the film didn't pick me back up after dragging me through the mud for the first half of the film. However, I did enjoy my time with Pursuit of Happyness. Will Smith did an excelent job acting out his role in the film and he made ya feel bad for him and his family. So, the film was worth watching. But if you don't catch it in theatres, this one will be just as good on DVD. Although, the guy next to me did fall asleep about halfway through the movie.....so, I guess some people might find the movie long and/or boring...

Boring! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This was such a boring movie! Also completely negative from start to finish. If you want a serious movie that is good, see blood diamond, and don't waste your time on this one.

Don't waste your time or money - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I had such high hopes for this movie after seeing the previews and seeing the real life story featured on Oprah. I was sorely disappointed. The movie has no substance, no depth, and no background. It tells what could have been a very profound, life-changing story, but does not tell you the why or how. It only mentions the main character's background; other than that, it fails to examine any of the characters in depth. It is a very surface, very superficial movie. It devotes all of 1 minute at the end to tell you the outcome of the story. Will Smith's acting was just ok. The child in this movie was more believable and a much better actor than Will Smith. Please go so Blood Diamond instead of this. Blood Diamond is a profound, potentially life-changing movie. The Pursuit of Happyness, on the other hand, is a poor excuse for a movie.

Didnt live up to all the hype. - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

It was like one long episode of Good Times. It was dreadfully long and drawn out. Yes, Jaden Smith was cute as heck but the movie was just ok. All the running back and forth just wore me out mentally. It didnt live up to all the hype.

Very depressing - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I saw the man, upon whose story this movie was based, interviewed by Oprah Winfrey. I expected this movie to be a wonderfully uplifting story on believing in yourself and persevering through any obstacle. It was the extreme opposite - not one moment of positive. I was exhausted by the time this all too long movie ended. It just goes to show the Hollywood folks really don't have a clue about what "real" people would view as entertainment. They seem to focus upon making a statement or name for themselves. Too bad. Just five minutes (of the movie?s two hours) showing an ending that reflected what really happened would have make a big difference. I left the theatre depressed.

Depressing and boring - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Having said that, make no mistake, Will Smith and his son are fantastic and the story is superb. But during the Christmas season, I especially look for a bit more uplifting... not just the 3 minutes at the end of the movie and a couple of postscripts prior to the credits. No one denies that poverty and dispair are more common than we would like but to witness them suffer through one setback after another was excritiating. And after the second landlord kicked them out, I almost walked out myself. But that does not take away from Will's performance. Now, run to United Way and make your donation.

It was good, but slow to get to the point - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I just got back from seeing this movie. I was in a depressed mood to start off with. The movie did not make me cry, but I felt some emotion. I thought it was a bit slow, and I knew the outcome, because Chris Gardner and Will Smith were on Oprah yesterday. Some of the camera shots were blurry, and on the big screen, this was annoying. I felt kinda creepy in certain situations, because I was in many situations as the character, like having no money, and not knowing where to go or what to do. I think this is a good movie overall, but I think it may appeal more to folks that are well off, because poor people (like myself) just think that this is a movie about normal life, and someone can make good out of very tough situations. I liked the movie mostly because I like Will Smith and I love a story that is not blood and guts and shooting people.

A movie that leaves - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I just saw the movie this afternoon and I really enjoyed it. It makes you feel good in the way Rocky ( the first one.) made you feel. It is a two hour movie that travels through modern hardships and it really makes you root for the hero ( Will Smith). His son also plays his part excellently. This movie will tug at your emotions and lead you to a feel good ending. You could also call it a real tear jerker , the two ladies who were sitting behind me in the theatre were crying at the movies end.

Awwwww... - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Cute. Nice acting, nice story. Tells you something about how good most of us have it, and how badly some people want it. How far would you go for your family? This guy (since it is a true story) has something within himself that most don't. I would highly recommend parents see this with their young teens reaching the true formative stage of their life. Will Smith proves, once again, his range of ability.

Very inspirational - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

It was a great movie. Recommmend to those who work hard everyday to ensure there are food on the table. Great movie.

Simple and predictable, but good - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

After prior reading of Chris Gardners 1 page biography from his own personal website, the movie acted out it's summation. Will Smith and Son carried out a believable account of what it takes for a man set out to fulfill his dreams with lessons along the way. I could easily relate to these characters struggles from my own life experiences as a Professional Salesperson who is now going through some financial trials, as this hit close to home. My wife was emotionally touched in two scenes that raised a tear. Other people as they left the theatre we're wiping their eyes with Kleenex as well. Will Smith has come to be a Pro Actor in this Movie, quite an improvement from his Prince of Bel Air days. Now we can only hope that Will does not become another Limousine Politician which is becoming so popular among celebrities now days!

Heartwarming but predictable - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

A man with a dream - more or less forced into one but situations he invevitablly put himself into. The story is solid but its not like we don't know where its going every step of the way. Will Smith is quite good if for no other reason he is given great lines and his adorable (real life) son to play off of. Thandie Newton howver, seems to overact some of the time. The movie is good with a positive message, even if it follows a forseeable path. Sometimes luck - good or bad, plays a huge factor but faith is always important - faith in yourself above all. At the same time, this isn't something you NEED to rush to the theater for, but its not one you'll be disapointed in either.

Wow - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

this movie was phenominal!! everyone should go and see this movie it is insiprational!! everyone go see it everyone go see it everyone go see it everyone go see it

Awesome story - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I absolutely loved this movie. It was a great story line. It is an example of what a true business man is. Has a good life, then loses everything, and then reclaims everything and has more success than what he started with. Absolutely awesome movie.

Lost lost lost - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

The movie start off with adventure and you sit on the edge of your seat thinking that this will be one of the best movies of the year. The movies is too long and after watching it for 30 minutes you know what the outcome of the movie is going to be. The story line had a great point, but this movies was given great reviews because of Will Smith and his sons. This movies would been best served as a regular Sunday movie on TV.

Fantastic and inspirational - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This movie was simply fantastic, Will Smith and his son are one of he strongest acting pairs out there. You will cry more than once during the movie. There is no nudity, no violence, a little language

Great story of overcoming! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This was a movie with a great heart-warming story behind it. Will Smith and his real-life son star in this movie. It is a great example of a father who will do anything and everything he can to help his family (even when times are extremely tough and seemingly impossible). This movie will make you laugh and cry. It is a movie of utter determination. The movie is also a great example for a society in which many times either the mom, dad, or both walk away from the resposibility of their children. And, I know what my faith teaches - "With God all things are possible". Tough times never last, but tough people do. God Bless, Dr Jerry Fowler Author of Positive Prayers CD's

Dirt poor to plain ole dirt!! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Due to climbing prices at the movies, I am very picky on which movies I go see. I had seen the trailer for the "Pursuit of Happyness" and was very excited to go see this movie. Will Smith portrayed a very selfish father and husband in this film. Instead of using his smarts to get a real paying job to help his wife keep the family fed and properly housed, he decides that it is more important to pursue his own dreams and in doing so puts his son at danger, and neglects the commitment to his marriage. When his wife says that she has an job offer to join her sister in NYC at her brother-in-law's resturaunt, and she wanted to take her son, Christopher with her, so he can have a better life, Will Smith's Character, Chris, refuses. IF he really cared about his son, he would have told the wife to take the kid, while he gets back on his feet. I also believe that he could have had more compassion for his wife, she is pulling double shifts, he could have listened to her. She is as skinny as a rale, tired and losing hope. Where's the love? IF he was a real man, husband, father, he would have put his dreams aside for a little while, and in the meantime, got a small, but paying job to help support his family. Then later, maybe worked something out to be able to accomadate his dreams. This movie was VERY disappointing and I am very angry that I wasted my time and money on it!!!

Masterful! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

As someone who was homeless once myself, I can truly relate to this story. I slept in my car, crashed on floors at friends houses, but had no home of my own and I was a single mother at the time. So I can truly relate to this story. I struggled to get a college degree and now make a decent living and recently purchased my first home. So I can also relate to his success. Will Smith did a remarkable job in his protrayal of Chris Gardener. And I for one salute him & his son Jaden for their work. This was a true story of accomplishment. It was not smeared by Hollywood trying to put some fake spin on things, it was real & true. Thank you.

Only 5 minutes of happiness in the whole movie - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I wanted to cry for all but the last 5 minutes, just when you think things have to start looking up it just slaps you in the face and says pull out the tissues The Acting was Fantastic, actually thought the performances allaround were great...The ending I would have preffered to hear about what happened to his son, his wife that left him, and if he was happy with his life up until now overall it's a good story and one that will bring you to tears but I def wanted something more happy about the ending

Amazing!! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This movie was amazing. I went into the movie expecting great things, and came out satisfied. This movie had me in tears through 85%. I did not think that I would get as emotional as I thought I would. I am 17 years old so I went with a bunch of friends, and I'm usually not very emotional, but this movie really brought my emotional side out. I did draw some tears, but I'm not ashamed. Will Smith did an outstanding job as Chris Gardner, and I liked the way he played that character. I'm glad I went to go see it, and I probably would like to see it one more time.

Will smith/oscar nod oh yeah ...dabenz24 is crazy - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Will smith never lost his fanbase whether it ws in hitch(hilarious) or I robot..Will SMith is one of the most versatile actors today.This film was awesome all the way.He portrayed homelessness to the bone.You actually believed that he was in that state of mind .Wonderful all the way around..Will smith desereves serious consideration for a oscar.. Its about time that we got rid of those fake tom cruise movies and horrible joaquin pheonix movies..Will smith might be holding gold come oscar time..

From fresh prince to oscar king - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Will Smith blew me away in this movie, I thought that Ali was his best performance but his performance in this movie was the best acting I seen in a long while. He deserves the Oscar for best actor! I couldn?t believe this is the same actor from The Fresh Prince, Independence day, Wild Wild West and the other movies that he pretty much is known for (along with that annoying shout). The movie itself is so moving and inspiring. You can?t help but get choked up. It is based on the true life of Chris Gardner who struggled with homelessness while trying to raise his son, when the wife couldn?t take it no more and left them. He tries real hard to survive and land a job and at the same time play and encourage his son. This movie is going on my collection.

Will smith shines in inspirational film - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

"The Pursuit of Happyness" is an inspiring film and, as is the case with most inspiring films, hinges on the performance of Will Smith. The story, like many such stories, runs a relatively predictable course. Will Smith does deliver a great performance as Chris Gardner, who is determined to make a better life for his family. He is an intelligent man caught in a tough spot financially. Despite his dire situation, he never stops believing in himself or Thomas Jefferson. One performance that breaks the standard down and out man beats the odds story is Thandie Newton's. She plays Gardner's wife, who does not have as much faith in him. Typically this story would have a "stand by your man" wife. Newton's character is not that typical wife and it adds to the quality of the story. What's most reassuring about Gardner's story, and consequently the film, is the perseverance of Chris Gardner. He doesn't have heroic physical strength. He doesn' have a miracle that shows him the light or grants his wish. He keeps at it. He overcomes every obstacle. This makes him a greater hero than Rocky Balboa, General Maximus or any action hero that has graced the screen.

Soulful - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

A very soulful story about a man whose on his own struggling to raise his kid. He is ambitious and smart and realizes from a haphazard run in with someone random that he can be a stockbroker without a tremendous education. The movie is about him dealing with all the things goings on in his life such as the stock broker trainee intership program and making money to support his kid. He is forced into some really hard times. I think everyone can relate to this character which makes him and the movie so much more poignant. He must run to make some crucial life altering appointment after being held up completely against his will. Just his rush and pace to try to get ahead and keep things secure reminded me of life in NYC. He is always running from some crazy circumstance and then has to completely compose him self and smile and show that he is good with people after all the madness he just went through. These parts were very amusing. Will Smith does do an excellent job portraying this character. He was perfect for the role. His sort of edgy, a little nervous, immersed in thought walk and his desperate, exhausted, nearly hopeless, melancholy yet determined facial expressions were really believable. His character can be viewed upon as a role model for people. To keep up hope never give up. This character has a tremendous amount of integrity and positive spirit and persistence despite all odds. However, the story is what you think it is and what I described and that?s it. Therefore it is a really simple story and besides the emotion and soul of Will Smith there is not much else there. No other characters are really significant. There is nothing to be said for the dialogue. There really wasn?t more than meets the eye here. But I was drawn in and rooted for Will Smith the whole time.

Are you suffering from insomnia? pofh could help. - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This movie is terrible. Boring. Long. Horribly done. It may have been a feel-good story, unfortunately they decided not to show any of the parts that could have possibly been entertaining (his rise as a broker, how he distinguished himself among the interns in the program, how he got stuck with all of the scanners, etc.). Instead we get to see Will Smith running. Seriously, that is what occurs in 90% of the movie. He runs for buses, for trains, for cars, into cars, after homeless hippies, and more. There is hardly any dialogue. Nothing really happens on screen. All of the big events are just alluded to. Also, most of the movie repeats the same sequences over and over again...it's like they only had ten days to film it. We get to see Will Smith chase after a hippie who stole one of his scanners, then fifteen minutes later (amazingly, implausibly) we get to see him do the same thing again. Wedged in between is a scene where he flees a cabbie who chases him. We also have the pleasure of seeing him stand in line for a homeless shelter....LIKE TEN TIMES!!! We get the point, he's poor. How about showing us how he succeeds, not just telling us that he does in a caption at the end. Absolutely terrible.

Smith shines - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I had subpar hopes for this movie and let me tell you this movie really surprised me. The movie all together was good, but Will Smith really makes the movie with his Oscar performance in my opinion. The story like I said was good, but repeating at sometimes. It was almost boring at sometimes, but it'll touch you by the end and it was great at times. Overall I say it's a good movie that you'll leave with a smile. Don't be afraid to go see it.

Will smith was great. thandie newton even better - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This PoH script is simply okay, however it becomes an excellent movie because of the acting performances. Will Smith's character is supposed to be a shining example of perseverance and dedication, and Will handles that role perfectly without silly one liners and other action movie trademarks that he has used in the past. However, Newton's character is PERFECTLY acted. This is a woman who instead of abandoning her family at the first sign of trouble, decided to work 80 hours a week in a one of the country's lowest paying jobs (she apparently works as a laundry service girl in a hospital) for close to half a year so that Will Smith's character could sell the machines that he sunk their money into. Even though Chris is a hard worker, he never goes the extra mile to help her by picking up a 2nd job the way that his wife has. As the months wear on, and Linda continues to be the only source of financial support for the family, she becomes increasingly frustrated with everything reaching the boiling point when Chris's long series of unwise actions start to interfere with her shift work and consequently her ability to provide for the family. Newton could have made this character into an unrealistic sycophant who supports her husband's every whim (which apparently is what some critics wanted). Or she could have turned her character into a shrew that complains and yells at her husband all the time. Newton wisely does neither. Although, Linda nagging Chris, she does not spend the bulk of her time doing that. Rather, Newton turns Linda into a woman who is simultaneously battling to believe in her husband while coming to terms with the fact that their life is only getting worse despite Chris's persuasive words. Linda consequently alternates between tears of hope and expressions of disgust and disappointment. Newton's was easily the best, most well-rounded emotional performance in a film that featured many excellent performers. I highly recommend this movie because of the performances; and especially because of Newton's performance.

Inspiring - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This was one of the most thought provoking and inspiring movies I've seen in awhile. The movie shows you how optimism, strong will and generosity go such a very long way.. and it'll definately make me question myself before thinking that I'm having a bad day. The actual screenplay was somewhat disappointing... at times it was very slow paced. But all-in-all, it was worth seeing for the message and for the wonderful acting by both Will Smith and little Jaden (his son in real life).

Thanks will for the 2nd chance - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Will Smith did a Dam Good Job in that movie. From the start to the end was real because I'm currently living it and lived it. Sometimes when you get so far down it's hard to climb up but when that right opportunity comes you must take it no matter what because it may be your last. There was nothing fake about that movie and I assumed you had to lived it to act it but Will found a way to live it on the screen. I would not wish life like that on the Devil because it's hard and people are harder when you're down. To the people that think everyone can pull out on top, it's not true. It's only true for 1 out of 100,000 or more because the average person would fold. His son kept him going because my daughter keeps me going. His son was grown at 5 years of age and that's what happens when you experience it young. I'm glad they did not stero type that all homeless people that's trying to make it drink and smoke. That's not the case. I asked my theripist if I don't drink or smoke what is my high? And she said, Accomplishments. A man on an accomplishment jounery tend to get high on accomplishments but trying to get that one accomplishment sets you back because it seem like no one wants you to win. I think they new he had the job becuase no matter what he kept going and did not complaint about nothing. The best quote of the movie was, "Quitting is a Sin." Thanks Will for giving me more hope and for living that movie real. There was no special effects it was the straight TRUE.

Took a long time to get to the happy ending - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

It would be disrepectful to not like this movie. The story is based on true events, the little boy is cute, the father is someone you can relate to. My feeling through the whole movie was that I knew it would end on a good note, and when bad thing after bad thing happened, I wanted to happy ending to hurry and get there. I admire the man this is portraying. However, I think we got the idea about 1 hour into it...yep...things were bad, he was in a tough situation. Got it. So why did we have to keep suffering through more and more of it? The happy ending was a bit short. Personally I would have liked seeing a few shots of them living a better life, just for closure.

Great acting ruined by a poor screenplay - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

When I first saw the trailer for Happyness I envisioned an Academy Award winning film. It made my girlfriend tear up and having never had a father in my life, I was moved by the profound message of the film. (This was just the trailer). After having seen the film I think of it as a lost opportunity. First of all Will Smith plays his role perfectly. His acting has true sincerity and he does an excellent job. I think he could possibly earn an Academy Award nomination but his acting is marginalized by a poor script. One of the first events that sparks his fall and Phoenix like rise is when his wife (played by Thandie Newton) leaves. It makes no sense that her ambitions befall her responsibilities of being a parent to the couple's son. It really puts a kink in the film and should have been expressed differently. Sadly moments like these often hamper the film's brilliance. Now that being said there are a number of moments that will move you and watching Smith's character lose everything only to return stronger than before is one of the classic tales that makes for great cinema. This film has a great message and affected me because my father was never around. I don't think of it as a morality play but it certainly does a great job of driving home some core values that sometimes get lost in the shuffle of our busy lives. Its great for families and dates and should be number 1 at the box office this week. Have a wonderful holiday season and I wsih you the best! -Duke

Feel good film of the year! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I was excited to see this movie after seeing the previews, yet was a little skeptical of Will Smith playing a drama role. Well I must say after seeing the sneak preview last night that I was extremely impressed with Mr. Smith's versatility. He really sold the role and you could feel throughout the film what he was feeling. The only role that I feel could have been played better, was his wife in the film. She seemed to be over-acting, and didn't really make the role very memorable. As far as Will's son, he is adorable, and did a fantastic job. I look forward to seeing his career progress. This is a definite must see film, and look out at the awards shows, because this film should run away with quite a few.

Will smith is amazing - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

This could be the movie that gets Will Smith an award because he was absolutely brilliant in this movie. He is one of my favorite actors and he never lets me down. All of his movies are great. Will's son Jaden does a great job as his son in the movie. Overall this movie is flawless with a great message, a great story & Great acting. I hope this movie does great at the box office. I'll guess $120,000 million overall at least. This movie has a great cast with Will Smith, Thandie Newton, Jaden Smith & Dan Castellaneta.

Greek mythology brought to life - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

One of the oldest storytelling devices, is the story of the hero's journey, who must overcome many trials by fire before being able to grab glory. This is precisely what this film is, and for what it is, it is wonderful. There was one reviewer who said that this movie is a downer, since he wants to be entertained by a light-hearted movie during Christmas. That one cries a lot during this film, and feels the sting of shared frustration with the characters (enough to hear groans of anger throughout the theatre) is certainly no joke. Whilst not presuming to tell people what they should like during this festive season, I can tell you that there can be no better film at the moment (save The Nativity Story), which is most evocative of Christmas. The humble beginnings which seem to entrap, more than to liberate. The hardships one must undergo, when everything seems ranged against us. The people poised to take advantage of one, but also unexpected benefactors bearing the gift of opportunity. All of this, is in this film. Will Smith, whom I haven't seen this involved and mature as an actor in a film, since the exceptional Six Degrees of Separation, performs his role with a world-weary courage that surely makes him an Oscar buzz threat. This is a film of possibilities: Can it be possible for a man to make it on his own, after his life's partner deserts his little family? Can he be the father to his son, that his own father never was? Can he stay afloat, even a little bit, as tax collectors, the police, and a life ridden in poverty (but not despair), threaten to submerge him? For the answer, you must see the film. But the overwhelming response must surely be: anyone can do so, with talent, courage, and perserverance. The hero's journey is never easy. But they wouldn't call it the hero's journey, if you didn't have to be heroic throughout.

The real deal - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

A "message movie about homelessness"? I think not. Obviously, E! Online, Dezhda Mountz never experienced anything too scary....like being a mother of two teenagers who did not yet have a job and whose ex-husband wasn't living up to expectations of "a Christian man". I wondered why my shoulder muscles were so tense for the first half of the film. It was because I identified with the absolute terror of how Chris Gardner/I was going to provide for his son/my two kids. No, we weren't homeless, I just relied on the good Lord to work in mysterious ways, keeping a roof over our heads, and providing food for us. But I gotta tell ya, Will Smith and his real life son did a good job of portraying "you do what you've got to do". This movie provides REAL inspiration. Karen Schwartz

We should all be so (un)lucky to relate... - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Everyone goes through ups and downs...that is part of life...but not the extremes of Chris Gardener. I myself was "homeless" for about 4 months during grad school sleeping on a friends couch in a dorm. That was traumatic...no place to put your things, no space, or privacy. That is not even close to having to lock yourself in a bathroom at a train station. I could also relate to events that cascade and come down on you like the world is plotting against you. A greedy unexpected lay off by a long time employer, a break up, she took out 75k in credit cards...bankruptcy looms, rent is due, job outlook is bleak....etc. I could relate to his plight of "What next?" "Where do I turn now?" "What will become of me?" that was etched in scene after scene in his face. Sometimes being unlucky is what needs to happen to you in order to come out of it the person you were destined to become. May not make sense at the time, but usually you are better for it. Will Smith delivers a great performance and so does his real life son. His expressions, and tears, and desperation that is exuded in his every fiber is authentic and inspiring. You can feel the pain and shame when he breaks down in that bathroom covering the ears of his exahuasted son. If we all haven't been there in our lives, we were taken there by Will Smith. This is a great film to give hope and inspiration to everyone that is not where they want to be in their lives.

Hope for the hopeless - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

I took my whole family to see this movie and it was one of the best movies we've seen this year. My kids got a glimpse of what life looks like outside of our "world". My wife cried and I was captivated. I would recommend this movie to everyone.

Determination and emotion in pursuit of a dream - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Will Smith is already nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance which brings life in The Pursuit of Happyness. This film is essentially the redemption film that Will Smith required because of his latest films that were disappointments such as I, Robot, and Hitch. Even though it was hard for me to take Will Smith seriously with this role, he proved otherwise and triumphed with an interesting underdog story. The first time I saw the trailer I was enthusiastic and determined on watching the film because of the raw emotion that was present. The Pursuit of Happyness is a true story based on the life of a struggling man named Chris Gardener (Will Smith). Chris is a single father that was evicted from his apartment in San Francisco. With his son Christopher (Jaden Smith) which is five years old, both discover the life of being homeless and going to shelter to shelter just trying to survive in the world. But later on Chris Gardener lands an internship at a famous stock firm which evidently changes his luck. This is truly a heartfelt story about a man that was determined on pursuing a dream with his life in poverty and was not going to quit no matter what people said. I truly enjoyed The Pursuit of Happyness for the integrity of the hardships of what Chris Gardener did. Even if I might not accept as true most of the situations that went on in this film but I actually understood the acting and the direction of which this film was going to. I think the title for this movie should need some work though, Happyness is not a word. Although I praise this film in an approach, I did not like that the film was predictable and some of the dialogue was blatant. Some of the cons were that there were not that many recognizable cast members that supported the star of the film, Will Smith and furthermore some situations were unneeded. The Pursuit of Happyness checks in at around 1 hour and 56 minutes which suits the film very much. It was a slightly below my expectations but could have some fixes that would have helped the film a little bit. I recommend this film to moviegoers that are interested in experiencing the movie that will redeem Will Smith?s career from I, Robot and Hitch. This film is exceptionally well fashioned and does a fantastic job in adapting into a motion picture. The finest part of the film hands down is the incredible effort in the performance by Will Smith?s character.

Can you say "oscar" - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

this is one amazing film. this acting is flawless in this film. it will either be will smith or leo dicaprio for best actor. if you dont get choked up in this film you dont have a heart. one of the best films i have seen in a long time. the son of will smith does an amazing job also for his first role in a major film. this is an A++ in my book. Good movie for the whole family to enjoy.

Will smith's best ever! - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Pursuit of Happiness shows one of the hardest life situation, the story was amazing, directiong was good, and will smith did a great great job. you can easily feel him, you can understand clear how does he feel during the movie. He did awsome, and I'm surely saying this movie is his best ever. This movie defenetly has the chance to be nominate for Oscar, and Will Smith desereves to be a Academy Award Winner. If you haven't seen, go and watch it because you are missing an amazing movie.

My pursuit of happyness - The Pursuit of Happyness Reviews

Being someone who was actually homeless in SF, I got an oppurtunity to work as an extra, in the movie Pursuit of Happyness! Since the movie finished fimling, last November, I've gone on to not only work at a movie theater, but also work in a TV show and also be in a local, bay area commercial in the last year. Why I liked the film? As Christopher Gardner would say, "If you want something in life, go get it, period!" I found the movie was very intertwined with the feelings and emotions of a shared sense of hopelessness when your homeless. I could relate to the desperation and despair of living on the streets, trying to survive. I saw Gardner on set and had a chance to shake Will's hand. They have inspired me to "pursue my happyness" and keep pursuing acting. Thank you...Will and Chris, God bless. Amen.