Movie Review
The Pursuit of Happyness
Introduction
        Directed by Gabriele Muccino, The Pursuit of Happyness is an inspirational drama based
on the real-life story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who overcomes adversity to build a
better future for himself and his son. Starring Will Smith as Chris and Jaden Smith as his son
Christopher, the film delivers a heartfelt narrative about perseverance, hope, and the power of
determination.
Plot Overview
        Set in 1980s San Francisco, the film follows Chris Gardner, who invests his life savings
in portable bone-density scanners, a venture that ultimately fails. Struggling to make ends meet,
he faces eviction, homelessness, and the challenge of raising his young son as a single parent.
Despite these hardships, Chris lands an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage firm,
competing for a single position among 20 interns. His relentless work ethic, determination, and
unwavering love for his son form the emotional backbone of the story.
Themes and Messages
        The film is a profound exploration of resilience and the pursuit of happiness in the face of
overwhelming challenges. For college students, the movie is particularly relevant as it
underscores the importance of hard work, persistence, and never giving up, even when the odds
are stacked against you. It also highlights the significance of education, time management, and
self-belief as tools for personal and professional growth.
Performances
        Will Smith delivers one of the most powerful performances of his career, portraying
Chris with raw emotion and authenticity. His real-life son, Jaden Smith, adds an additional layer
of realism to their on-screen relationship. Their chemistry makes the father-son bond incredibly
moving and relatable.
Lessons for Students :
1. Adaptability: Chris constantly finds creative solutions to navigate life's hurdles, showing that
adaptability is crucial when facing unexpected challenges.
2. Perseverance: The movie teaches that success often requires enduring periods of struggle and
rejection.
3. Sacrifice for a Dream: Chris sacrifices comfort and stability to chase his dreams, reminding
students of the importance of prioritizing long-term goals over short-term gratification.
Cinematic Excellence
       The film’s pacing, emotional depth, and uplifting score by Andrea Guerra enhance its
impact. The storytelling is straightforward yet deeply impactful, allowing viewers to connect
with Chris’s journey on a personal level.
Critique
       While the movie is highly inspirational, some may argue that it romanticizes struggle and
equates happiness solely with financial success. Additionally, its depiction of corporate culture
may seem overly idealistic to some viewers.
Conclusion
         The Pursuit of Happyness is a must-watch for students. It serves as a motivational guide,
illustrating that with determination, resourcefulness, and an unbreakable spirit, one can overcome
even the most daunting challenges. The film not only inspires but also encourages reflection on
one’s own life goals and the steps required to achieve them.