Very fine drama which does not fall on cheap sentimentalism

Rating: 8/10 (30 January 2007)

The stories about fight against adversity tried to inspire humanity from its beginnings.But, with the creation of movies and television,they transformed on a simple thing which manipulates emotions.Sometimes,there's a movie that avoids on falling on that following a good story and almost redeeming that cheap genre.The pursuit of happiness is one of that surprises that,without being perfect,produces emotion on the spectator with a great work from all the actors.This film is based on real events and,luckily,Steve Conrad's screenplay feels honest without cheap sentimentalism and it does not have the clichés this kind of movie usually has.There is not shallow drama or villains.There are good performances,realistic situations and a story which progress on a natural way making that the spectator can feel identified with the main character's evolution,his triumphs and failures.Will Smith brings a great performance.Jaden Smith(Will Smith's son on real life)has a very natural performance.Thandie Newton shows conviction on her performance.And the supporting cast brings realistic performances.I found two failures on this movie:the first one is that,on some moments,the film is too slow.The second one is that the film could have been a little shorter.The pursuit of happiness is a fun movie and it can inspire without manipulating the emotions.Italian director Gabriele Muccino made a honest drama and I recommend it because the film brings a good experience.