Review of PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS

PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS - STORY: True story of a man who, in pursuing a potential job as a stockbroker, has to endure severe financial hardship and homelessness for himself and his 5-yr-old son.
PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS - MESSAGE: Persist against all odds without compromise and you will win.
PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS - WIN: His choice to pursue a good job was good, as well as his decisions and most of his actions along the way. He improves his condition by taking rational steps. He loves and helps his child, even, at one point, when it means admitting he was wrong. He knows what is best for himself and his son, and does that, despite the risk and despite the loss of his wife. His attitude is one of making it go right, rather than falling victim to his circumstances. He exhibits fast thinking, creativity and superior ability (solves puzzle.) (Rare in today's movies where the foibles of the character seem to define him.) He doesn't turn to alcohol or drugs. He faces people well.
PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS - LOSE: I would have liked to see a little bit more communication about the truth to his son, because 5-year-olds aren't as incapable of comprehension as so-called experts tell us. The hero also had to tell a few white lies, which was unfortunate but necessary to his success.
PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS - EFFECT ON ME: Made me realize that my problems weren't nearly as dire as some people and that I should not complain so much. Made me realize the amount of effort and intention it actually takes to make my dreams come true in this world of ours. I committed to more of both.
Sincerely,
Becky Mate
Script Consultant
www.virtueinthearts.com