Will Smith named his best movie, and it’s not what you’d expect
The actor surprised fans by choosing ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ over blockbusters like ‘Men in Black’, ‘I Am Legend’, and ‘King Richard’.
In a recent interview with IndieWire, Will Smith reflected on his career and named 'The Pursuit of Happyness’ as the best film he’s ever made.
“The direction, the cinematography, the music... it all came together,” he said. “Right after that, I’d put 'Men in Black’.”
While fans might have expected him to highlight Oscar-winning 'King Richard’ or iconic roles in 'Ali’, 'Independence Day’, or 'I Am Legend’, Smith instead pointed to the emotional depth and personal resonance of his 2006 drama.
A story that left a mark on screen and off
Directed by Gabriele Muccino, 'The Pursuit of Happyness’ tells the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while caring for his young son.
Smith starred alongside his real-life son Jaden Smith, and the film earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Despite its modest box office expectations, it grossed over $300 million worldwide and remains one of his most critically acclaimed performances.
In fact, Smith has said he was surprised the film didn’t receive more awards recognition at the time.
Where to watch it now
‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ is currently available to buy or rent in Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google TV, and it holds strong ratings across platforms:
- IMDb: 8.0
- FilmAffinity: 7.4
- Rotten Tomatoes: 67% critics, 87% audience
Other favorites, and the most fun he’s had on set
Smith also shared that if he had to place four films in a time capsule, he’d include 'I Am Legend’ and 'King Richard’ alongside 'The Pursuit of Happyness’ and 'Men in Black’.
As for the most fun he’s had making a movie? That honor goes to 'Bad Boys’, 'Bad Boys II’, and 'Aladdin’.
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