38th NAACP Image Awards announced yesterday that The Pursuit of Happyness was their choice for Outstanding Motion Picture of the year. Based on a true story about a man named Christopher Gardner, Will Smith not only stars as the main character in the film, but is also listed as one of the producers. That is the truest sign of commitment an actor can make.
The story follows Gardner (Smith), a struggling salesman in 1981 San Francisco, who takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional career. Gardner has invested heavily in a device known as a "bone density scanner", which he feels will make his fortune. However, they do not sell well. His wife leaves him, he loses his apartment, and he and his five-year old son (Smith's real life son, Jaden) are forced to live on the street. So, he has to work at something else to make ends meet. While he maintains faith in his invention, he takes on a non-paying internship as a stockbroker, with slim chances for a paid position. This is a decision that will change his life.
This may sound like a rather over used rags-to-riches story, but it's super-star Will Smith's heartfelt performance that elevates The Pursuit of Happyness above the all too familiar melodrama trappings. And while critics like the film, audiences love it. Smith hits all the right notes, demonstrating understated, and providing an engaging, inspirational, character. But he's not the only eye catching talent on the screen. His young son, Jaden threatens to out charm the most charming man in showbiz.
With such knock-out performances, appealing characters, and a theme that is relatable to so many, it's no surprise that the NAACP has chosen to honor such a fine film as the Outstanding Motion Picture of the year award. No doubt The Pursuit of Happyness will remain in the hearts of so many for years to come, perhaps even becoming a staple of family oriented films. Be sure to find out for yourself just why this film is so special. You will come away believing anything is possible, even if everything seems so bleak.