Will Smith in a "Never give up" situation strives

Rating: 8/10 (12 May 2020)

The Pursuit of Happyness is one of Will Smith's more popular and well praised films. He was nominated for a Oscar by the Academy, and despairingly so. Considered one of his greater performances as we see the emotion from his character's face showing range throughout the film. He is an easy character to root for and we see the real life struggles he goes through just to survive with himself and his son.
This film is rather touching and has a lot of inspiration scenes and speeches delivered by Smith. It isn't as much of a tearjerker type as initially thought of. Considering we first know the struggles will happen, then ultimately within the end, he will get his big break. Also much more comedic than initially thought as well.
The film works great due to the chemistry between Will and his real life son (Jaden Smith). In the beginning we see Will and his wife Linda (Thandie Newton) arguing a lot, and mostly with Linda complaining and throwing unnecessary fits. They really made her character completely unlikable, where she showed no sympathy for Will when he was struggling and then eventually leaving him with his son and little notice about her departure. We understood that he was struggling to pay the bills and rent, and it was mentioned that she was working extra shifts, but it seemed at no point she was wanting to help fix things together.
It really felt as if she never wanted to keep the family together, and in the scenes with her and Will, he isn't the one to start many arguments. She lashed out on him for about anything and didn't ever seem ever satisfied or happy. Then once her character leaves for New York for another job opportunity, we do not see her again- which has been for the best.
Overall, very good film with touching moments, teachable aspects and a strong message of working hard can lead to success. Recommend if haven't seen already.