great movie in every way

Rating: 10/10 (8 April 2007)

Pursuit of Happiness is a wonderful film with an engaging story, beautiful score, terrific performances and hopeful message. It is just about perfect. I went back and saw it again in the theatre and then rented it on DVD. A heartfelt thanks to Smith, Muccino, Gardner, and all who made this such a touching and unforgettable production.
I agree with viewers who appreciate the fact that Will Smith's character didn't blame racism or capitalist competition in America for his problems. He just had a series of tough breaks, not the least of which was abandonment by his wife.
I constantly witness and lament Hollywood's negative stereotypes of fathers. It is refreshing to see such a well-done movie that presents a father in a positive light. I often look to the movie Kramer vs Kramer as an all-time great feel-good pro-father film. But Pursuit of Happiness is even better. One of the reasons is the scene in which Smith's character is assuring his son that his mother didn't leave because the son was bad. Unlike in the movie Kramer vs Kramer, the dad didn't spend five minutes reflecting on what a lousy husband he'd been to his poor neglected wife. Smith's character simply said "Mom left because of mom. It had nothing to do with you!" Right on dad. And thank you Will Smith and Chris Gardner.