I wanted to stand and cheer for this man!

Rating: 7/10 (19 January 2007)

It seldom happens that I walk out after seeing a film, inspired by the characters, their tenacity and courage. However once the lights come on after this one, I felt this great power inside of me to make a change. Sometimes we don't really appreciate how lucky some of us everyday that we have a place to sleep, eat and a family to turn to.
Chris Gardner was able to make to most of his opportunities and never give up even in the face of losing everything. This man, was not a genius, born with some incredible gift. He is like any one of us. Striving to make the best of himself, giving it a go and always knowing that anything is possible if you try.
The film, aptly directed by Gabriele Muccino brazenly tells the story of Chris and his son trying to make a living in the world. Chris is finding it increasingly difficult to pay the rent add to that the costs of childcare and ensuring his son has a good education. His wife (ferocious and heartbreaking played by Thandie Newton) has little strength and hope left in her and has given up hope completely. Despite this, Chris marches on and into a job at Dean Witter. He's a bright guy and applies himself diligently and earnestly. He uses every opportunity he gets to accomplish is goals, practically doing what needs to be done all while keeping his head afloat from poverty. Most of all, he never backs out when things get tough. By example, he teaches us some heartfelt and reliable rules about life.
I thought it a little strange that an Italian would direct a film starring a black American about the hardships of living in suburban U.S. However when you watch the film, you realise it could be taking place anywhere in the world. This is a story about the steadfastness of a man trying to cope in a system that has abandoned him, where hope is scarce and precious. It is a story of hope, anywhere in the world. Add the shimmering luscious score by Andrea Guerra, I did feel some resemblance towards the films Il Postino and Cinema Paradiso, but this film never shies away from harsh realities and avoids sentimentalism abundant in those films.
1980s San Fransisco and the bay is beautifully showcased by the shimmering waters and azure sky, set against the rolling hills and eclectic mix of Victorian and modern architecture. Seeing the city made me revisit some picturesque scenes in Vertigo where Jimmy Stewart is cruising around on the tail of his mysterious Carlotta.
As many reviewers have already noted, the story never panders to blame, pity or politics. What is more inspiring is that Gardner never uses these excuses to stop him from doing what needs to be done. He always carries himself with confidence, integrity, a smile and fighting spirit.
While some people may take the simplistic view that money is the be all and end all to happiness, the truth is that in order to live and sustain oneself in a developed society one must play be the rules of work to live. It is also necessary to understand that capitalism is necessary to sustain a wealthy economy. This film shows us the darker side of such a society but how each person can still make their dream if they work hard and have hope.
I was deeply affected by the courage of Smith. He has wonderfully evolved since his early days as the skinny homeboy in Fresh Prince proving his versatility and maturity and the transformation is impressive. His character was tremendously brave, bold and inspiring. The qualities that made him a good person, good father were the same ones that told him never to give up. The chemistry with his son was tangible, raw and wondrous. Both of them deserve Academy awards nominations next week. They serve a testament to anyone who needs a chance in life just to live.
I loved that quote that Gardner bestowed to his son when it seemed there was little hope in sight. It basically summed what he was trying to achieve in the film. But it was so simple and true that we should all apply it everyday - "You want something? Go get it. Period." I'm not an emotional person, but by the end I was cheering like no other AND had tears in my eyes. Truly inspiring.