The Pursuit of Happyness

"The fact-inspired drama "The Pursuit of Happyness" is more inspirational than creatively inspired -- imbued with the kind of uplifting, afterschool-special qualities that can trigger a major toothache..."

"You have to wonder if making us feel bad for about 99% of a movie in order to make us feel good later is really a healthy thing for the actor or for the audience patiently enduring a string of bitter blows as (Smith's) character, Chris Gardner, struggles to claim his share of the American dream and maintain his loving relationship with his son..."

"This is a slick studio production with a huge movie star and top professionals occupying every production role so that the polish of this well-made film makes even homelessness look neat and tidy..."

"Smith wins our hearts without losing his dignity, as Chris suits up for success by day and fights off despair by night. The role needs gravity, smarts, charm, humor and a soul that's not synthetic. Smith brings it. He's the real deal..."

"A conventional — and at times exaggerated — meditation on the American work ethic, The Pursuit of Happyness is also a heartwarming tale of paternal affection that avoids liquefying into sentimental soup. Like its protagonist, it somehow manages succeed at just the right moments..."