DadTalk

Movie Review - The Pursuit of Happyness

The film Pursuit of Happyness is based on the true story of Chris Gardner and his pursuit of fatherhood

The true spirit of fatherhood

For this particular DVD evening, the whole family settled down to watch 'The Pursuit of Happyness'. After one viewing my son is often loathed to watch something again, but not on this occasion.

The Pursuit of Happyness is based on the true story of Chris Gardner and his pursuit of fatherhood. The film is about his total conviction to protect and provide for his son. Chris Gardner never ever took his eyes off the big picture, but had challenges that would make many simply give up. His business is failing and debts suffocating. His wife leaves, seeing only darkness and unable to burden the pain. But Chris Gardner refused to give up his son.

The film is a roller coaster in the truest sense. You laugh at the audacity of Chris Gardner and his ability to convince high flying stockbrokers to give him an internship, despite turning up to the interview in a vest and covered in paint. You admire the determination and energy, when having put his son to bed, he continued to study throughout the night. You despair when Chris and his son are evicted from their flat and a motel room and are forced to sleep some nights in the restroom of a subway station. A lower moment few of us will ever experience. But be assured this true story has an ending that will bring encouragement to all who watch it.

Chris Gardner is brilliantly played by Will Smith. What makes this film even more special is that Will Smith's son, Jadin, plays the role of Chris Gardner’s son. The connectivity is undeniable. The real Chris Gardner makes a cameo appearance at the end. Buy the DVD and see an interview with Chris Gardner.

Every father, and I mean every father needs to see this film with their children. It has everything: trials, despair, passion, conviction and joy. It is simply brilliant.

For more information on Chris Gardner, visit www.chrisgardnermedia.com