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Now, I have not seen The Pursuit of Happiness, the last Smith – Muccino film, but I have heard descriptions that used “emotional” and “tear jerker” as adjectives. At least the same can be said about Seven Pounds. Personally, I’d describe it as a well-acted, well-directed, massochistic drama. You might ask why, and you will get an answer.
While it’s been marketed under utter secrecy, and the critics have been asked not to reveal any spoilers, from the trailer and the first 10 minutes of the film, I knew where it was heading. The only thing I kept asking was if it would go all the way. And it did. There’s no optimism in this movie, there’s only sadness and remorse. Sure, there’s kindness and emotional connection, but that only helps draw you in and make you care about the characters.
Will Smith is, as always, more than capable of doing the job at hand (though I doubt he’ll get another Oscar nomination, even if deserved, he faces too much competition this year). He portrays this broken, guilt ridden man with intensity. At no point can I believe his forced smiles without seeing the anguish inside. This is a focused, yet troubled individual, an emotional wreck that even when glimpsing the smallest hope for his future, can not accept it.
Rosario Dawson is delightful as the woman who connects with this man, a bundle of sadness herself. The rest of the cast is adequate (felt like Woody Harrelson was underused) but somehow doesn’t fit the puzzle, due to little screen time, and less character development.
The final revelation, twist, or whatever you’d call it, isn’t as dramatic as the build up leads to believe. In the end, the movie is just a good performance, a good idea, but somehow overshadowed by an unneeded romantic angle and too little psychological insight into a damaged soul
PS: I used “massochistic” to describe it as you can always stop watching, that is, if you can tear yourself away from this emotional ride downhill (as it is a real downer).
Posted on December 20th, 2008 by MrWiseguy
Filed under: Movies
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