Review of The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) by Matt F — 25 Apr 2012

"The Pursuit of Happyness" is one of the most effective star vehicles of the last ten-or-so years. For me, Will Smith's virtuoso performance is the male substitute to Julia Roberts' work in "Erin Brockovich" - yes, he's that good.

"Pursuit" follows the exploits of Chris Gardner (Smith) in early-1980s San Francisco, who is struggling to provide for himself and his young son (played by his real-life son Jaden Smith) in unstable economic times.

Eventually, he finds his way into an unpaid internship at an investment firm, where he seeks something more substantial out of life. In reality, this is really the Will Smith show. The actor is a long way from his wise-cracking "Fresh Prince" days here, displaying the depth and raw emotional presence that reminds us all why he became such a big star in the first place.

The director, Gabriele Muccino, who was hand-picked by Smith to helm this picture, also shows a steady hand throughout and avoids sinking this ship into the murky waters of tired melodrama. Add an adorable performance from a younger Jaden Smith, and I'll give this borderline tearjerker a thumbs up.