Pursuit of Happiness

Starring:Frank Whaley, Annabeth Gish, Amy Jo Johnson, Patrick Van Horn, Cress Williams, Liz Vassey, Alex Hyde-White, Dawn Eason, Jenn Gross, Jean Stapleton, Kieran Mulroney, Anne-Marie Johnson, Michelle Krusiec, Megan Blake, Jessica Randle, Tom Wright, Tudi Roche, Amy Tinkham, Michael Raysses, Michael 'Mick' Harrity
Director: John Putch
Studio: Mti Home Video
Product Type: DVD

The Pursuit of Happyness (Widescreen Edition)

Average customer rating:

THIS IS GREAT
INCREDIBLY WELL DONE!!
Pretty good...but less than I expected
Inspirational True Story About Overcoming Obstacles
Smith finally breaks through into the elite of actors and gives us as all something cheer about...

The Pursuit of Happyness (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Will Smith , Jaden Smith , Thandie Newton , Brian Howe , and James Karen
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000N6U0E2
Release Date: 2007-03-27

Amazon.com

A heartwarming film that demonstrates how good, hard-working people can become homeless almost overnight, Pursuit of Happyness is a tour-de-force showcase for Will Smith, who convincingly portrays a down-and-out dad trying to better his family's life. Smith, who usually is cast in effortlessly boyish roles (Men in Black, Independence Day), is wonderful in the film--even in the scenes that shamelessly tug at viewers' heartstrings. Based on the true-life story of Chris Gardner, a San Francisco salesman forced at times to shelter his young son (played by Smith's adorable look-alike offspring Jaden Smith) in a men's room, there is little suspense to the film in terms of Chris' outcome. (His story and eventual success a successful and wealthy Chicago businessman was well-publicized on the newsmagazine show 20/20.) And let's face it, Hollywood's not too keen on making feel-good movies with unhappy endings. The beauty (and suspense, to a certain extent) of this film is in the way the story is told. Though he is constantly rushing around to get to appointments and pick up his child, things do not happen quickly for Chris. When he accepts an internship with a prestigious stock brokerage firm, there's a catch: The position is unpaid, suitable more for trust-fund children than single parents with no other source of income. In many scenes, the viewer panics along with Chris, wondering how he's going to feed his child. While Smith and his son, Jaden, share many tender moments together, Thandie Newton has the thankless role of playing Chris' shrill wife, who deserts her family early in the film. It's not a particularly challenging part for the talented actress, and her departure doesn't impact the storyline much at all. As for the movie's misspelled title, it's inspired from a scene in the film. (Seeing a mural drawn by the children at a daycare center, Chris points out to the proprietor that "happiness" is spelled incorrectly. She notes that it doesn't matter how the word is written--just that the kids have it.) With Pursuit of Happyness, Smith has come out of his safety zone and, in turn, ends up playing his most heroic role to date. --Jae-Ha Kim

Extras from The Pursuit of Happyness

Behind the scenes footage of

The Pursuit of Happyness
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Chris Gardner:

"On Being Studied By Will Smith"

high bandwidth

Will Smith And Jaden Smith:
"On Will Always Being In Character"
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Beyond The Pursuit of Happyness on Amazon.com

More Films Starring Will Smith
More Films About Fathers & Sons
The Book

Stills from The Pursuit of Happyness (click for larger image)

Amazon.com

Will Smith stars in the inspirational true story of Chris Gardner, a San Francisco salesman who's struggling to make ends meet. When his girlfriend Linda (Thandie Newton) walks out, Chris is left to raise their 5-year-old son Christopher (Jaden Smith) on his own. Chris' determination finally pays off when he lands an unpaid internship in a brutally competitive stockbroker-training program, where only one in twenty interns will make the cut. But without a salary, Chris and his son are evicted from their apartment and are forced to sleep on the street, in homeless shelters and even behind the locked doors of a metro station bathroom. With self- confidence and the love and trust of his son, Chris Gardner rises above his obstacles to become a Wall Street legend.

Customer Reviews:

THIS IS GREAT.......2007-06-29

My husband and I watched this and loved it so we had to buy it. It shows what life is really about

INCREDIBLY WELL DONE!!.......2007-06-27

While this movie was only a slice out of Chris Gardner's book it was still incredibly well done. It placed the focus on what was important about this man's journey and I applaud Will Smith and his team for being able to do that. This movie inspired many and Will deserved those nominations for the role he played.

Pretty good...but less than I expected.......2007-06-25

This is your typical rags to riches story. It lacked the drama I was expecting...considering the hype. Still, it's a good movie and I'd recommend it.

Inspirational True Story About Overcoming Obstacles.......2007-06-23

If you have a vision/goal for yourself & your family and you work hard to realize those dreams, then you will succeed in life.

Mr. Gardner is a wonderful example of the typical person with the vision/goal of living the all American dream. Through much adversity he never gave up and went from being homeless to a successful stock broker.

Smith finally breaks through into the elite of actors and gives us as all something cheer about..........2007-06-22

Will Smith carries this film on his very sturdy shoulders and proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that he has matured since his `Fresh Prince' days into a very fine actor. His performance is layered, structured and intelligent, but amidst all of that he still comes across natural and refreshing, never forced or mechanical. Every emotion runs through his blood effortlessly and full of believable conviction. I've always been a fan of Smith, but here he returns to the brilliance he possessed in `Ali', coupling his on screen fire with heart and soul that transcends the meaningless boundary's of comic relief but that which leaves a deep rooted sense of character and warmth. Smith disappears inside Christopher Gardener but he never loses himself, his charm and his commanding presence.

`The Pursuit of Happyness' tells the true life story of Christopher Gardener, a family man who gets wrapped up in the wrong pyramid scheme and ends up broke and homeless. His wife Linda, played by Thandie Newton, walks out on him he's left desolate and alone. The love for his son Christopher, played brilliantly by Smith's own son Jaden, is what keeps Gardener holding on in pursuit of a better life.

One thing that Christopher has going for him is potential. He's a smart man with ambition and determination and so when he sees an opportunity to rise above himself through an internship with a law-firm he takes it despite the fact of no pay and he uses it to better himself and his surroundings. Smith's wide range of emotions are what keeps this story compelling and entertaining, from his sadness and grief stricken situation to his cheerful demeanor he masquerades in for his sons sake to that emotional clap of relief as he realizes his dreams amidst a crowded sidewalk, Smith breaks down his own barriers and builds for himself a place alongside the acting giants of today.

With pros there must also exist cons, and those cons appear in a few different forms. The first form is that of co-star Thandie Newton who develops a bad habit of repelling the viewer. Her character, while unsympathetic in general, is overly unsympathetic not to mention a tad-bit annoying, and that's putting it nicely. Where's that girl I saw in `Crash' who stole the entire show from her co-stars, who electrified the screen and screamed "nominate me"? She's lost albeit in a mess of a character who could have been so much more but turned out so much worse than anticipated. The flow of the film is a bit choppy as well. Some parts flow by effortlessly while others drag on and even get a bit redundant. The director at times tries too hard to emphasize Gardeners destitute condition when that said condition is already made apparent enough for the average viewer.

That said, there is still a lot of good to remember when recalling this film, and Will Smith's brilliant performance is reason enough to watch it at least once. I also must mention Smith's young son Jaden who perfectly compliments his father's passion by effortlessly mastering his performance which is sympathetic, controlled and elegant, never over the top or exaggerated like it could have been. He comes across as poised as his father and as at home in his performance as an actor who's been doing this all his life. One day this young actor will reach the feats his father has, and with a beginning as strong as this one he may end up there sooner than later. This story is one to be heard, and told as beautifully as it is here makes it easy on the ears.

Average customer rating:

Don't judge a book...
Supermarket-quality movie
Mediocre writing & direction
A SUPERB OLD FASHION ROMANTIC COMEDY
Good offbeat comedy. Worth a rental

Pursuit of Happiness
Starring: Frank Whaley , Annabeth Gish , Amy Jo Johnson , Patrick Van Horn , and Cress Williams
Director: John Putch
Manufacturer: Mti Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00008NGDT
Release Date: 2003-05-20

Customer Reviews:

Don't judge a book..........2007-04-21

If I had come across this movie on the shelf at the video store, I would have not just passed it by but avoided it overtly. It has the stupidest DVD cover ever. Which is ironic considering the lead character's line of work.

I gave it a chance for a couple of reasons. For one, I am always searching for the ultimate Annabeth Gish vessel, and for two, it had a solid romantic premise.

Regarding point number one, this is, in my opinion, definately the "one." As you may recall, Annabeth had a few hits in the 80s and then kind of fell off the map, fame-wise, after that. It's an absolute shame, really.

The fact is, she is brilliant at what she does -- heart rending emotions and gleaming charm. She does not disappoint in this movie. Her character is constantly making you want to reach through the screen and hug her. Thankfully she has her best friend of many years to do that for us. And for that perfect reason, this movie has officially ascended to one of my favorites - certainly within the ranks of Annabeth Gish's filmography.

If you can look past the annoying characterization of Amy Jo Johnson's role, the movie is absolutely worth at least one viewing, if not several.

Supermarket-quality movie.......2006-09-10

I first saw this movie on TV (early morning),and wasn't surprised to later see it at a supermarket checkout line.

Frank Whaley plays a schlub who's considering working for 'Playboy' (a scary thought,this movie giving fear a new name),and who may (or may not)be in love with Annabeth Gish,his childhood sweetheart.The story is needlessly confusing,but you know the two will come together because they're meant for each other.Awwwwww....

Mediocre writing & direction.......2006-06-10

I like romantic comedies in general, even some that I recognize as being formulaic, but I didn't like this movie. The weaknesses were immediately apparent--awkward dialogue, lack of visual style--but I hoped the movie would overcome its faults. It didn't. Unlike, for example, Wedding for Bella, which had some similar shortcomings and obvious outcomes, this movie never made me care about the lead characters--they were two-dimensional sketches rather than fleshed-out characters. I liked Amy Jo Johnson, although being a 30-year-old playing "the teenager" suggests a reason for her undistinguished career, and I liked Liz Vassey who was also relaxed in her character rather than awkwardly acting a part. Otherwise, nothing to see here. Move along.

A SUPERB OLD FASHION ROMANTIC COMEDY.......2005-05-07

"Pursuit of Happiness" is a superb old fashion romantic comedy film. Actors are really good, especially I liked Annabeth Gish very much. She is a talented, beautiful and smart actress. It seems to be a simple romantic movie but it is much more than that. The perfect atmosphere of the movie can make you feel a lot of different emotions. It shows me a lot of truth that I was not aware of. It shows that the job, money, carrer and things like that are not really important. The important thing is to aware of the day, love the day, seize the day and just be happy because there are somebody around you that loves you whatever you are or you will become. If you want to watch a good film, feel wondeful things and see good acting, I suggest this film strongly.

Good offbeat comedy. Worth a rental .......2005-01-14

The Pursuit of Happiness is a light romantic comedy about a man who is dissatisfied with his life. He thinks changing his job and relationships will make things better but winds up in more misery. It's not until the end of the movie that he realizes the things that make him happy are right in front of him. Most will want to see this movie for Amy Jo Johnson, TV's "Pink Ranger" but the other actors in this entertaining film give great performances in this fun movie.

The Pursuit of Happiness - Live in Concert

Average customer rating:

The Pursuit of Happiness - Live in Concert
Starring: The Pursuit of Happiness
Manufacturer: MuchMoreRetro Presents
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000I2KQPE
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Description

The Pursuit Of Happiness (TPOH) led by songwriter and lead singer Moe Berg, captured the imagination of listeners in 1987 when they released an independent single and music video for the now famous coming-of-age song "I'm an Adult Now". This DVD, taken from the MuchMusic archives, was recorded at Snowjob in March 1993 in Whistler BC.

Average customer rating:

ABC News 20/20 Rags to Riches

Manufacturer: ABC News
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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How did Chris Gardner go from being homeless and living in a Bay Area Rapid Transit Station bathroom in Oakland, CA, to heading his own brokerage firm, owning three homes, including a posh Chicago townhouse, with a collection of designer suits and a Ferrari? In an ultimate rags-to-riches story, Gardner explains what motivated him to beat the odds and rise from his life on the streets, all while taking care of his young son. A book entitled "The Pursuit of Happyness," as well as a movie of the same name, starring Will Smith depict Chris Gardner's amazing life story. This "20/20" show contains the following additional story: Serial Rapist

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

Average customer rating:

Inspiring
Offensive, awful
Brilliant
Jump on this film
A letter I sent to Tiffany Shlain after viewing the film

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
Starring: Liz Marks (II) , Sarah Mueller , Marcus Berry , Mark Pauline , and John Newmeyer
Director: Tiffany Shlain
Manufacturer: The Video Project
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00022I9DQ
Release Date: 2003-02-01

Description

An award-winning film about everything and one thing: Choice.

Playfully updating the 1950's school documentary, Life, Liberty uses political and social satire to explore the issue of reproductive rights for women.

Found-footage, animation, and original images are masterfully woven together to tell the fictional stories of a conservative politician, a fundamentalist activist, and a young couple in love.

The film celebrates the landmark Roe v.Wade Supreme Court decision, highlights the ongoing political and social battle for reproductive freedom in the United States, and urges viewers to consider the possibilities should Choice be taken away.

Customer Reviews:

Inspiring.......2006-05-24

I wish we had access or just had MORE of these kinds of short films. This film would definitely have garnered an A+ at our Film school. I can't wait to get out there and join this brave group of people who are not allowing the religious right to dictate our choices in life and in our careers as filmmakers in this country. Bravo Tiffany. Keep up the good and educational work.

Offensive, awful.......2006-05-09

"When we consider that women are treated as property, it is degrading to women that we should treat our children as property to be disposed of as we see fit."

-Elizabeth Cady Stanton, feminist trailblazer, 1873

This DVD was shown at my school as part of an effort to start a student pro-choice group. The film unabashedly slams anyone who doesn't support legalized abortion-on-demand. Through clever imagery, it compares pro-lifers to Osama Bin Laden, and associates Reverend Martin Luther King with advocates of abortion. Anyone who believes in the Bible or who supports abstinence or creationism is painted as a "fundamentalist." A crazy clinic bomber beating a Bible and wielding a crucifix is representative of those who think abortion is wrong. Abortion-clinic bombings are shown as something common and accepted as deterrent approaches in pro-life circles. Conservatives are portrayed by a white, stodgy-looking middle aged couple. The Catholic church is made fun of for its promotion of abstinence. The film says that, in the dark ages of the 50's-70's, women were told to marry for money...while today, ostensibly because of legalized abortion, women are free to marry and become whomever they wish. I found myself offended for the many women from that era who are VERY independent, successful and happy despite (or maybe even thanks to) unplanned children.

As an intelligent, modern Christian woman who believes that children in the womb have worth and that - religious views aside - women & society deserve better than abortion, I was appalled at the level of prejudice and hate (disguised in humor) in this film. According to its premise, I am a crazy, crucifix-wielding, backwards-thinking fundamentalist who wants women to die and be unsuccessful/unhappy/afraid. This makes me like Osama Bin Laden, and unlike Martin Luther King.

The makers of this film are entitled to their views, as am I. But if I made a cartoonish film calling pro-choice people "baby-killers" and "Godless," and equated them with terrorists and equated myself with social heroes, and showed "loose" women shouting obscenities and wielding feminist literature (or "The Origin of the Species") to portray abortion proponents, I'd be demonized. The same would be true if I attacked any group like these filmakers have done.

Anyone who thinks that an attack on religious, political, or moral views is offensive should be appalled by this film. It's a disgrace to the pro-choice agenda, to Planned Parenthood (the funders and promotors of the film), and to its creator. Nobody - Christian, Muslim, pro-choice, pro-life, pro-homosexual or anti-homosexual, creationist, evolutionist, Republican, Democrat, conservative or liberal - should be expected to put up with this level of propoganda and persecution. Most disturbingly, it's being shown in schools (and who knows where else).

We women seem to be moving backwards in showing respect for humanity and in gaining respect from humanity, thanks to films like this. As a woman, I am saddened by the fact that this seems acceptable to so many. Women deserve BETTER than abortion, and those of us who believe that and strive for better alternatives are being attacked via this horrible film. I try very hard to be respectful and patient when talking to those who disagree with me on this topic, and I would never stoop to this level of attacking or belittling abortion proponents. It's a cheap shot.

Brilliant.......2006-03-19

This is a brilliant piece about choice. It combines logic that a child could understand with humor and fact. Now if we could just get the adults to understand.

Jump on this film.......2006-01-09

I caught Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness by accident on Television one day, but I was immediately drawn in to the short film's catchy style. The film makes excellent use of repetition, without hitting the viewer over the head. The reference to men as mammals with and X and Y chromosome that cannot bear children, made me giggle. At first the reference to frogs seemed a little odd, but by then end of the film it all makes sense. Unlike this review. In short, I like the film, not just for its pro choice message but also because it's fun.

A letter I sent to Tiffany Shlain after viewing the film.......2006-01-07

Hello Tiffany,

I just watched your short "Life Liberty And The Pursuit Of Happiness" with my boyfriend yesterday.

AND WOW! IMPRESSIVE! Our Tivo just happened to grab in the suggestions area and the title caught our eye.

Talk about instantly getting sucked in. The absolute unique approach to the format of the film was amazing!

You didn't wait a second to grab the attention of the viewer. And it just kept going.

It's people like you I really want to thank for taking such a wonderful approach to get your views across. And for this, I thank you!

I was so impressed by it, all I could think about was posting it on my myspace profile video .... but I don't even know how to go about getting exclusive rights to things like that, and I noticed your selling it, so I doubt there is a way to go about it. So I just posted a post on myspace showing your screening times on the Sundance Channel with a link to their site as well as yours and highly suggesting to watch it. 5 Stars!! =)

Once again, Thank you for a wonderful viewing experience, and keep up the wonderful work!!!

Sincerely,

Dusty

And the Pursuit of Happiness (Poursuite du bonheur, La) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.4 Import - Australia ]

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And the Pursuit of Happiness (Poursuite du bonheur, La) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.4 Import - Australia ]
Director: Louis Malle
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000HKH1IW

Product Description

Australia released, PAL/Region 4 DVD: it WILL NOT play on standard US DVD player. You need multi-region PAL/NTSC DVD player to view it in USA/Canada. LANGUAGES: English (Dolby Digital 2.0), SYNOPSIS: For a period of about three months, celebrated French director Louis Malle grabbed his camera and took a tour of immigrant communities and individual refugees across the United States. The results are fun to watch as they are peppered liberally with good humor. When Cambodian refugees come into America with bags of rice, the narration notes that "for the Cambodians, rice is survival, for the immigration officers, it is microbes." Several success stories are seen and in some ways the documentary is weighted in that direction. A West Ghanan makes good with a taxi company he started, a Korean applies to several top ten universities, and in a political flub of the worst kind, the mansion of exiled General Somoza from Nicaragua is shown with the comment that the infamous General is "becoming a regular suburbanite. SPECIAL FEATURES: Interactive Menu,

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