The Pursuit of Happiness tells the story of Chris Gardner, single dad. Chris is a tireless caregiver for his child, despite not having a partner or money. Dean Witter offered him an internship, but it turns out that the job is more challenging than he expected. He thought that the generous offer would give him enough income to support his family. However, $600 of taxes was added on top. Because he cannot pay rent, he is evicted and forced to take refuge at a station toilet. To get his little boy from daycare, and to ensure that he sleeps in a secure place, he leaves work at 5 o’clock. Chris is called one day by Dean Witter and, despite his hopes of being given a safe job, is informed that he will become a broker. Dissatisfied with his job, Chris exits work and weeps when he sees others go by. He takes his child to daycare, and he cuddles them. Chris is seen walking with his son down the street while the boy tells him some jokes. Chris looks back at the man, depicted in fine suits as Chris passes him.
The film’s contextualist perspective highlights how the movie shows the connection between the sequences and the locations, times, and conditions. Chris is evicted by his family for not paying the rent and seeks shelter in the restroom of a train station to show the difficulties. This incident is a reminder of the consequences of low revenue. Filmed in San Francisco in 1981 the film shows the challenges of unemployment as well as the pursuit of the American dream (Velikova 2016). This video shows happiness being a result having faith and perseverance. One can achieve their goals and dreams despite any obstacles.
This video demonstrates several concepts, including persistence, not giving up, holding on to your dreams, managing time, happiness, and time management. The scenarios help the viewer to understand and grasp the basic ideas for overcoming obstacles and hardships in their lives.
Chris shows commitment and perseverance in the opening scene. As he is driving to his sales meeting, Chris sees an older gentleman in his expensive car. He approaches him and comments, “You’ve got great cars.” “I have only two questions. How do you get there? He said, “I’m an investment banker.” Chris questions the man, “Is it necessary to have a college education in order to be a stockbroker?” He replies, “Perhaps it is not.” It is enough to have a good understanding of numbers and how people work.