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A Slice of Life
by Francine Brokaw
The Pursuit of Happyness
Father and son unite onscreen for the first time. Jaden Christopher Syre Smith makes his film debut opposite his father Will in this touching story inspired by the real life of Chris Gardner. The story first caught the attention of executive producer Mark Clayman while he was watching a segment of 20/20, he immediately knew he had to bring it to the big screen. “I turned to my wife and said, “I’ve got to get the rights to this story and this could be a home run role for Will Smith.”
Smith was interested in the story, and says when he heard director Gabriel Muccino say “’Americans take the American dream for granted,’ he had me hook, line and sinker.”
Casting Will’s son Jaden was a risky choice. Was it nepotism or could the kid really handle the part? Those fears were soon relieved. “The boy stole all our scenes together,” Smith laughs. “When I would look in Jaden’s eyes filled with the pain and anger little Christopher was experiencing at that moment, it added to the reality of the scene because I was failing him as a father.” Father and son play beautifully together on screen and off.
The film is a sensitive portrayal of a man who loses everything – his wife, his money and his home but he never looses hope. He holds out for what is his – the pursuit of happiness. After all, the constitution gives him this right. But it doesn’t give him happiness, just the right to pursue it. And that is exactly what he does.
As salesman he isn’t even making ends meet, but then he seizes a chance that could lead him up the corporate ladder faster than he ever dreamed. He took an internship in a stock brokerage firm to learn everything about this lucrative industry. During the months he was an intern he didn’t receive a salary, and he and his son Christopher were forced to live in shelters and sometimes public bathrooms, but he always put his son first and worked hard to stand out at the firm. His tenacity paid off and he reached the silver lining, the light at the end of the tunnel, the big payoff. “If you want something, go get it.” You must always protect your dream.
Today Chris Gardner is a multi-millionaire. Should we feel sorry for this man who struggled so hard but made it? That’s up to you. He is just one man who knew that he could make a better life for himself and his son and pursued his right to happiness. After all, he was only following the Constitution!
Will Smith and his wife, actress Jada Pinkett Smith live in the hills around Malibu, enjoying the country life which is far removed from the bright lights of Hollywood. With Jaden following in his parent’s footsteps (and his sister Willow waiting in the wings) into the family business, it’s safe to say this is one talented family.
© 2006 Francine Brokaw
All pictures ©Sony Pictures. Photo:Zade Rosenthal. All rights reserved.
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