Set in early-'80s San Francisco, the film charts the hard times and eventual comeback of Chris Gardner, a suddenly single salesman who has custody of his son, but finds that providing for the two of them is a challenge in the increasingly unstable economic climate. He struggles to work his way from unpaid intern at Dean Witter to something more substantial, even as life continues to offer him setbacks.
Overall, this was a good film with a great message. However, most of the film was pretty depressing. I mean, the guy couldn't catch a break despite working hard to do all the right things for him and his family. It wasn't until the very end of the film that things started looking up. So, if you can handle 2 hours of depressing circumstances, this really is an amazing true life story of overcoming obstacles and shows that "keeping your eye on the prize" can really pay off. The special features include an interview with the real Chris Gardner where he talks about his story and validates the authenticity of most of the scenes in the movie. Definitely worth a look.
Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
Would I watch it again: No
Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Christopher Syre Smith, Thandie Newton
I typically watch movies on Monday, Wednesday and Friday while riding the ACE Train from Tracy to Santa Clara. The opinions expressed are those of me, myself and I.
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I actually caught this movie on a flight from Ft. Lauderdale to Denver while returning from my honeymoon. I had wanted to see the movie, so despite my tiredness, I stayed conscious and watched the feature.
Dave hit it on the head with the great movie, but depressing most of the time. The fact that it was based on a true story is equally amazing. So, I'll give it the following review.
Will Smith and his son laid out fantastic performances. The movie was well done and was just the right speed. I easily give this a 4 of 5 and was leaning toward 4.5.
I will now contemplate whether or not to purchase the movie. My guess is that in a month or two it will be making an appearance in my collection. Well done!
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