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.