Rated PG-13 for some language.
Directed by Gabriele Muccino
Starring Will Smith, Jaden Smith…
Wow!
If Will Smith didn’t prove himself to you in Ali, then he’ll do it with Pursuit of Happyness.
Will plays Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman pursuing a life changing goal to work at a successful stock broker firm. Meanwhile, troubles at home leave him taking care of his son with no place to live, and no salary.
I loved the film. Will Smith was amazing. And young Jaden chose a great film to launch his career.
Will Smith’s character is likable. He has perseverance and integrity. He’s smart and a great people person. You want him to succeed as you take this tough journey with him.
Some might think the film was too stressful or sad. I’ll be honest—the film truly did show you the “struggle” that Chris Gardner went through. I was reminded of movies like Cinderella Man. And I might have even needed a few Klennex. The film isn’t exactly a comedy. But it won’t leave you disappointed as you exit the theatre.
I think all of us should see this film—it will help you remember to count your blessings.
SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
I was happy that I took my 13 year old to the screening. The film depicted real life struggles and gave a glimpse at how poverty can hit the hard working. The film had one use of the f-word (in a humorous way… the kids sees it graffiti’d on a wall and asks what it is), and a few cuss words scattered throughout. Small kids won’t enjoy the film anyway, but it would be great for teenagers and even mature tweens to see.
Side Note:
As said above, we recommend you skip this film. But on the occasion that your teen actually has already seen it, you may want to dialogue about the film with them. These questions below may be a help to you.
Conversation Starter
Three Simple Questions (with Answers You May Be Looking for):
- What are some of the messages or themes you observed in this movie?
- How do you suppose we—as serious Christ-followers—should react to this movie?
- How can we move from healthy, Bible-based opinions about this movie to actually living out those opinions?
