The Pursuit of Happyness (English, 2006)

Down and Out in the U.S. of A. A rags to riches story is always a good draw. This film is different. Yes, it is based on a true life rags to riches story. For a change though, its not a riches through luck or inheritance story. It is the story of a down and out guy whose wife leaves him and he is left caring for his pre-schooler son, at a time when he is absolutely penniless and is just starting in a new, uncertain career. It is the story of his struggles, his determination and his love for his son. Its not the story of a man never breaking, its the story of a man breaking, then picking up his pieces again and starting again. Its not the story of success through determination, its the story of trying and failing repeatedly, of having so many setbacks that you feel like quitting and actually mentally quit a couple of times, but then start again and go on. It is the story of...

The Pursuit of Happyness is the story of Chris Gardner (Will Smith) and his son Christopher (Jaden Christopher Syre Smith), a father's care of his son inspite of difficulties and a man's determination to the pursuit of happyness. To me, what Chris tells his son in basketball court symbolizes the movie and is a message for all of us "Don't ever let someone tell you, you can't do something. Not even me. Because when people tell you can't do something, it is because they can't do that thing".

Wonderful acting by the real life father-son duo of Will Smith and Jaden Smith, wonderful execution of the story line and real inspiring stuff of struggle and determination.

Recommendation - I am not writing too many complimentary adjectives here, you watch the film yourself and decide on your own. Its just too good a movie.

Recommendation - ✔✔✔✔