This part of my life is called -Movies for mind food and what could be a better choice than the incredible ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ starring the adorable Jaden Smith(the younger self)and Will Smith.
One can easily relate to Chris Gardner’s devotion to his son and his determination to make it big for both of them.
Not withstanding the truth that hard work alone may not pay every time, the movie manages to make a case for the old school values of hard work and focus that lead to success.
Jaden Smith impresses as a little boy who finds comfort with his father even when there is almost no security.
It is amazing how children can be talked to with affection and respect to understand and accept a situation however harsh it might be.The ‘willing suspension of disbelief’ in the entering the dinosaur era and seeking comfort in the public toilet by the father and son is a case in point.
Chris’ reaching the interview straight from the prison in soiled clothes and then clinching it is another example of the power of sheer grit displayed by the character.
The film is replete with instances of exemplary courage and commitment displayed by Chris Gardner, the understanding of his wife who allows the son to stay on and the little boy who with his mere presence gives comfort to the struggling father.
While some part of the movie may look contrived, it is elevated by the intense acting displayed by both Will Smith and his son, Jaden Smith.
Inch by inch, bit by bit, Chris Gardner moves towards success and stardom, leaving a hope in the mind of the viewer that a touch of luck, a lot of hard work and a few good friends can work wonders in any one’s life.
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