Introduction
The Pursuit of Happyness, directed by Gabriele Muccino, is a drama that explores the challenges and triumphs that accompany a person’s lifelong pursuit of a better life. This 117-minute film, released in 2006, tells the story of the complexities of adulthood and the pursuit of happiness.
Explanation
The role of the main character, Chris Gardner, went to Will Smith. He is a determined man who faces financial difficulties while simultaneously overcoming the demands of parenthood The film opens with Chris Gardner working as a salesman trying to make ends meet. He is holding his young son, played by his son Jaden Smith.
The film is set against the backdrop of San Francisco in the early 1980s and shows the harsh realities of the main character’s life. He is evicted, unemployed, and facing the constant challenges of single parenthood. The plot revolves around Gardner’s quest to get a coveted internship at a prestigious stock brokerage firm. In his opinion, this is the way to a better future and desired happiness. The film successfully explores the emotional and financial struggles people face as they search for a fulfilling life in late adulthood.
The director skillfully uses various camera techniques through which the audience gets the emotional depth of the characters and enjoys the cityscape. According to Saroj (2023), “The salient traits of the movie, such as the complexity of the story, the innovative cinematography, the underlying social issues and depiction of socio-economic condition of San Francisco of 2000s, which make it vocal and open-ended have dragged a critical attention for myriad of theses” (p. 94).
Close-ups highlight Will Smith’s facial expressions, conveying the intensity of Gardner’s emotions. The use of hand-held cameras during key scenes, such as the main character’s job interview or moments of despair, creates a sense of helplessness. This allows the audience to empathize with the main character.
Analysis and Evaluation
“The Pursuit of Happyness” highlights a beautiful performance by Will Smith that seems both powerful and moving. The music, composed by Andrea Guerra, complements the narrative, heightening the emotional impact of key scenes. Another characteristic of the film is the reflection of the feelings of African Americans who find themselves on American soil (Saroj, 2023).
At its core, double consciousness implies that African Americans remain hidden from the perspective of the majority of white individuals. However, those navigating this dual awareness simultaneously engage with the world predominantly associated with whiteness. However, despite the positive aspects of the film, which were listed above, there are also shortcomings. For example, some critics argue that this narrative tends to idealize the “rags to riches” theme. For some people, this can simplify the idea of overcoming poverty and homelessness.
My opinion about the film may seem trite, but the essence of the film does not require deep understanding. This is a must-watch movie for every individual who is disillusioned with their life and their abilities. It motivates one to take oneself in hand and start moving forward despite all the challenges and obstacles that a person may face in life.
It highlights some of the most important areas for a person: work, housing, and children. In each of them, the main character failed, and at one point, I wanted to cry, but Gardner did something different. He realized that his own life was at stake, and he either started moving or remained homeless with his son. The plot and essence of the film seem motivating, which is enhanced by the shooting techniques. The film successfully reflects the essence of late adulthood, addressing the universal themes of hope, sacrifice, and the desire for a meaningful life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “The Pursuit of Happyness” illuminates the difficult phase of late adulthood and highlights the challenges and triumphs that individuals may face. Its success lies in its authentic depiction of human success combined with a well-chosen main character, his acting, and an effective plot. Although the film has its flaws, they are overshadowed by all the positive emotions and feelings that remain after watching it.
The film shows a reflection of adulthood, which is accompanied by many difficulties. Specifically, they include finances, homelessness, and the daunting responsibilities of single parenthood. Will Smith’s convincing portrayal of Chris Gardner adds emotional depth. This allows the audience to empathize and empathically feel the gravity of his challenges.
Director Gabriele Muccino’s storytelling skill is evident in the flawless integration of various elements. The cinematography, dialogues, and musical score, made in 2006, do not even cause any comments. As for my opinion, I think this movie is brilliant, even though it has a simple idea. This is a testament to the power of cinema to inspire, provoke thought, and illuminate the complexity of the human journey to growth and development.
Reference
Saroj, G. C. (2023). Making of the self through spiritual striving and material quest in The Pursuit of Happyness. Literary Studies, 36, pp. 93-103. [PDF document]. Web.