---
title: "The Pursuit of Happyness"
year: 2006
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-pursuit-of-happyness-2006"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 1402
imdb_id: "tt0454921"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 117
community_rating: 7.9
vote_count: 10683
content_rating: "PG-13"
---

# The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-pursuit-of-happyness-2006

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Pursuit of Happyness is a 2006 film centered on the experiences of a salesman. The narrative follows this individual as he takes custody of his son. At this juncture in his life, the protagonist is positioned to begin a professional career that promises to be life-changing. The title of the work reflects the concept of a pursuit, which is defined as an effort to secure or attain a goal, or a quest. This term also suggests a profession or occupation followed with steady interest or zeal. While the film depicts the challenges faced by the main character, the story remains focused on his transition toward a new professional path while managing his responsibilities as a parent. By navigating these circumstances, the salesman works to secure a different future for himself and his child. The film explores these themes through the lens of a man balancing his personal life with the demands of his career aspirations.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A struggling salesman fights to provide a better life for his young son while pursuing success."

### Why Watch
- compelling lead performance
- emotional resonance

### Caveats & Content Note
- heavy subject matter
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains themes of financial hardship and emotional struggle.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: inspirational, emotional, determined, realistic

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | Netflix, Netflix Standard with Ads | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Netflix, Crave, Netflix Standard with Ads, Crave Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | Netflix, Stan, Netflix Standard with Ads, Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Gabriele Muccino
- **Networks / Studios**: Escape Artists, Relativity Media, Columbia Pictures

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Will Smith** as *Chris Gardner*
- **Jaden Smith** as *Christopher*
- **Thandiwe Newton** as *Linda*
- **Brian Howe** as *Jay Twistle*
- **James Karen** as *Martin Frohm*
- **Dan Castellaneta** as *Alan Frakesh*
- **Kurt Fuller** as *Walter Ribbon*
- **Takayo Fischer** as *Mrs. Chu*
- **Kevin West** as *World's Greatest Dad*
- **George Cheung** as *Chinese Maintenance Worker*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Is this film based on a true story?
The film is inspired by the life of a real salesman.

### Q: What is the main conflict?
The protagonist faces severe financial instability while trying to secure a future for his son.

### Q: Is this a family film?
The story deals with mature themes regarding poverty and professional struggle.

### Q: What is the tone of the movie?
It is a dramatic and inspirational story about resilience.

### Q: Who is the main character?
The protagonist is a salesman working to change his professional life.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Discover Iconic Places & Unforgettable Experiences | Pursuit](https://www.pursuit.com/)
- [PURSUIT Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pursuit)
- [PURSUIT | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/pursuit)
- [Pursuit - definition of pursuit by The Free Dictionary](https://www.thefreedictionary.com/pursuit)
- [Center Console Boats | Offshore Fishing Boats | Pursuit Boats](https://www.pursuitboats.com/)
- [Pursuit](https://www.pursuit.org/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*