Will Smith Starred in Many Flops, but This Drama From 20 Years Ago Is Undoubtedly a Success

Will Smith's career has seen both massive hits and outright flops. In 2006, however, he starred in a movie that was not only a commercial success, but also the dramatic pinnacle of his career – The Pursuit of Happyness.

Director Gabriele Muccino created a rare kind of film, one in which sincerity and a minimalist approach replace melodrama and cheap narrative tricks.

What Is 'The Pursuit of Happyness' About?

In the 1980s, single father Chris Gardner struggled to survive in San Francisco's harsh environment. After losing his savings in a failed investment in medical equipment, he found himself on the brink of financial ruin.

His wife, Linda, left the family, forcing Chris to spend nights with his young son, Christopher, in shelters, parks, and even public restrooms. Despite the setbacks, he clings to his dream of becoming a stockbroker by accepting an unpaid internship at a prestigious firm.

The odds were stacked against him – typically, only one in twenty interns secured a permanent position. Yet, Chris refused to give up, his persistence and belief in a better future were his only paths to salvation.

'The Pursuit of Happyness' Is Based on a Real-Life Success Story

The plot is based on the true story of Chris Gardner. After deciding to start his life over, a salesman of unwanted medical equipment takes an internship at a trading firm.

His wife leaves him, leaving him responsible for a young child and homeless. Yet, in pursuit of his dream, Chris not only manages to stay afloat – surviving poverty, nights in shelters, and even a stint in jail – but also ultimately finds his own business and becomes a millionaire.

The movie's sense of realism stems from the biographical source material and the on-screen chemistry between Will and Jaden Smith – there was never any doubt that the father and son were essentially playing themselves.

'The Pursuit of Happyness' Offers a Universal Story That Remains Relevant Even After 20 Years

The Pursuit of Happyness is an emotionally captivating movie that inspires us to define and pursue our goals, no matter the cost. Will Smith delivers one of the most powerful dramatic performances of his career, proving that he is more than just an action star – he is a serious dramatic actor.

Smith plays a man who maintains his dignity and optimism despite a series of setbacks, and his struggle to preserve his humanity touches viewers deeply.

The father-son relationship is portrayed with particular poignancy. Chris Gardner is doing more than just surviving – he is striving to provide his son with something he never had: security and the belief that dreams can come true.

If you haven't seen The Pursuit of Happyness, now is the perfect time. If you have, watch it again to be reminded that light can be found even in the darkest of times.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'The Pursuit of Happyness'?

• The Pursuit of Happyness has 67% from critics and 87% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 8.0/10.

• On Letterboxd, The Pursuit of Happyness scored 4.0/5.0.

Where to Watch 'The Pursuit of Happyness'?

The Pursuit of Happyness is available to buy or rent on Amazon Prime Video.