The Pursuit of Happyness
The Pursuit of Happyness
A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional career.
Manuel Frangis reviewedSeptember 15, 2025
I just watched The Pursuit of Happyness and I give it 5 out of 5 stars. This movie is one of the most powerful and emotional films I have ever seen. It tells a story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, showing the strength of a father’s love and the determination it takes to rise above impossible circumstances. From the opening moments, it pulls you into the struggles of Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, and never lets go. It is raw, honest, and moving, but also full of hope. By the end, I felt both emotionally drained and incredibly uplifted.
Will Smith gives the performance of his career as Chris Gardner. He captures every detail of the character, from the quiet moments of doubt to the bursts of determination that keep him moving forward. You can feel the weight of his struggles, but you also feel the unshakable love he has for his son. It is one of those performances where you forget you are watching an actor and instead believe completely in the character. Jaden Smith, playing his son Christopher, is equally wonderful. The chemistry between father and son feels so real because it is real, and that authenticity makes their relationship the heart of the film.
The story itself is simple but incredibly powerful. Chris Gardner is a man who refuses to give up despite overwhelming obstacles. He loses his home, his stability, and even his sense of security, but he never loses his drive to create a better life for his child. Watching him struggle through homelessness, rejection, and exhaustion while still holding onto hope is both heartbreaking and inspiring. It shows how resilience and determination can carry someone through even the darkest times.
What makes the film even more emotional is how it portrays small victories. Every little success, every moment where Chris gets a break or makes progress, feels monumental because you know how much he has endured. The movie does not rush to give you easy answers or quick wins. It makes you sit with the struggle, which makes the payoff at the end so much more satisfying. When Chris finally achieves what he has been working for, it feels like a triumph not just for him but for everyone watching.
The direction and cinematography are understated, allowing the story and performances to take center stage. The film does not rely on flashy visuals or big effects. Instead, it uses quiet, intimate moments to show the weight of the struggle. The city streets, the shelters, and the workplaces all feel real and lived in, grounding the story in authenticity. The music adds just the right amount of emotion, lifting key moments without overwhelming them.
What I love most about this movie is its message. It reminds you that happiness is not something that comes easily but something you fight for, sacrifice for, and never stop believing in. Chris Gardner’s story is proof that even when life is unbearably hard, it is possible to push through and create something better. It shows the importance of perseverance, hope, and love, and it leaves you with a renewed sense of gratitude for the opportunities in your own life.
By the time the credits rolled, I had tears in my eyes but also a smile on my face. The Pursuit of Happyness is a film that leaves a lasting impact. It is more than just a movie, it is a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome. That is why I give it a perfect 5 out of 5 stars.