Chris Gardner (Will Smith) struggles to keep his family together as they face economic difficulties; perhaps an internship at a brokerage firm is a way out of the troubles. The true story of Gardner who hit rock-bottom and became homeless before his life finally changed for the better is an engaging and emotional story anchored by Smith’s committed performance and his charming interaction with his real-life son. The filmmakers are constantly on the verge of going too mushy and Gardner’s never-ending streak of bad luck becomes almost comical… but a lot of care has gone into the project.

2006-U.S. 117 min. Color. Widescreen. Directed by Gabriele Muccino. Song: “A Father’s Way” (Seal, Christopher Bruce). Cast: Will Smith (Chris Gardner), Thandiwe Newton (Linda), Jaden Christopher Syre Smith (Christopher), Brian Howe, James Karen, Dan Castellaneta.

IMDb