8.0/10
374,485
629 user 204 critic

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional career.

Director:

Writer:

(as Steven Conrad)
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Popularity
904 ( 12)
Nominated for 1 Oscar. Another 11 wins & 24 nominations. See more awards »
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Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
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Christopher (as Jaden Christopher Syre Smith)
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...
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Alan Frakesh
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Walter Ribbon
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Mrs. Chu
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World's Greatest Dad
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Chinese Maintenance Worker (as George K. Cheung)
David Michael Silverman ...
Doctor at First Hospital
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Tim Ribbon
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Ferrari Owner
Joyful Raven ...
...
Tim Brophy
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Storyline

Based on a true story about a man named Christopher Gardner. Gardner has invested heavily in a device known as a "bone density scanner". He feels like he has it made selling these devices. However, they do not sell well as they are marginally better than x-ray at a much higher price. As Gardner works to make ends meet, his wife leaves him and he loses his apartment. Forced to live out in the streets with his son, Gardner continues to sell bone density scanners while concurrently taking on an unpaid internship as a stockbroker, with slim chances for advancement to a paid position. Before he can receive pay, he needs to outshine the competition through 6 months of training, and to sell his devices to stay afloat. Written by John Wiggins, Alf Fonz

Plot Summary | Plot Synopsis

Genres:

Biography | Drama

Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)

Rated PG-13 for some language | See all certifications »

Parents Guide:

 »
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Details

Country:

Language:

|

Release Date:

18 January 2007 (Israel)  »

Also Known As:

Ha'mirdaf la'osher  »

Filming Locations:

 »

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Box Office

Budget:

$55,000,000 (estimated)

Opening Weekend USA:

$26,541,709, 17 December 2006, Wide Release

Gross USA:

$163,566,459

Cumulative Worldwide Gross:

$307,077,295
See more on IMDbPro »

Company Credits

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Technical Specs

Runtime:

Sound Mix:

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Color:

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1
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Did You Know?

Trivia

Speedcubing champions Tyson Mao, Toby Mao, and Lars Petrus were hired to coach Will Smith to solve a Rubik's Cube in under two minutes. See more »

Goofs

At the beginning, when Chris and Christopher are walking to daycare, Christopher is carrying a basketball in a plastic grocery bag. In subsequent shots, he is not holding the ball. He receives the same ball as a gift later in the film. See more »

Quotes

[after he hits Chris in the middle of the street while other onlookers help Christopher Sr. find his shoe]
Driver Who Hits Chris: Hey, asshole! Are you all right, asshole?
See more »

Connections

Featured in The 79th Annual Academy Awards (2007) See more »

Soundtracks

A Father's Way
(2006)
Written and Performed by Seal
Produced by Bill Bottrell
Seal appears courtesy of Warner Bros. Records Inc.
See more »

Frequently Asked Questions

See more (Spoiler Alert!) »

User Reviews

 
Amazing!
16 December 2006 | by See all my reviews

I have been a fan of Will Smith for years and I have to say this may be his best film yet! "The Pursuit of Happiness" is just a wonderful (based on a true) story, full of adventure, hope, and pain. I saw the movie last night in a packed theater. Big Willie Weekend has returned, and for good reason! It's a great movie to see during the holidays and definitely a tear-jerker! Perfect for a date, a night out with friends, or even with family. If you ever thought Will Smith really couldn't act (and shame on you!), you'll think otherwise once you see this movie. You can really feel what he's going through just by looking in his eyes. And Jaden Smith is too adorable! Their on screen chemistry is almost unbearable to watch! Go see this movie! Great acting, great directing, great writing...you won't regret it!


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