Film Analysis
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Film Analysis
The “Pursuit of Happyness” is a 2006 American film. It takes the viewer through the journey of one African American man in an attempt to change his narrative to one of success. The protagonist of the film, Chris Gardner, will be the basis of analyzing the role of masculinity. The Farrell essay notes that men give up a lot in their quest to provide for their families. This is how society programs the function of men. In the film, Chris Gardner exemplifies this.
Since he wants to contribute to the income of his wife and better their life status, he sacrifices his life savings for investment in the x-ray sales business. Although this is a poor decision that sinks the family into worse financial situations, the motive behind it is clear. He wants to provide for the family. The worst is yet to come when he has to struggle alone with the feelings of hopelessness as some potential customers turn down the offer to purchase the equipment. This is in line with the Farrell essay, which indicates that traditional masculinity teaches the man to hide emotions. Chris is struggling with a broken heart after the wife leaves him but does not show these emotions at least to the viewer.
There is also another instance where the protagonist hides emotion because ‘a man‘s got to do what he’s got to do.’ This is when he gets an internship opportunity. The opportunity does not pay, but he knows in the end that it would be advantageous and would lead to a dream job. Chris has to contend with the demeaning nature of interviews alongside people who are much younger than he is. That is because the man has his eyes on the price. Further, Chris never shows an ounce of negative emotions in front of his son. He always reassures him that life is going to get better even when all odds seem against that reality.
The traditional man does not give up. They would rather die than live without being heroes. This explains why Chris has to run after a person who takes off with the equipment that he is selling. He would rather risk his life and get back the only little hope that he has left. It also explains why Chris has to look aggressively for a buyer of his equipment even within his internship period. Chris has to get some money for him and the son to pull through the internship months. The traditional man is also the protector and the provider. They want to take care of their families sufficiently. As for Chris, he cannot let go of his son and decides to soldier on with him despite the struggles he faces daily.
References
Muccino, G. (2006). The Pursuit of Happyness. Columbia Pictures. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en-68WB1Svk