This isn’t the first time I’ve depicted a minature faximile of myself. Of course, the first time was several years ago and this time around it involves actual biology.
I think it’s pretty interesting that Will Smith is starring with his son Jaden Smith in The Pursuit of Happyness as father and son on screen. At first glance, this kind of thing looks like raging nepotism. But if you really stop to think about it, there have been a lot of very effective parent/child parings in cinema. Tatum O’Neil and her father Ryan O’Neil in Paper Moon, for example. Or Jane and Henry Fonda in On Golden Pond. I presume it has something to do with the level of authenticity between family members. Or maybe the kids are just trying to upstage their folks. After all, living well is the best revenge – but I suppose that’s a cynic’s take on the issue.
I’m very much attracted to seeing Thr Pursuit of Happyness this weekend. As you may or may not know, it’s based on the true story of Christopher Gardner. In the early 80’s on the cusp of the stock market boon, Gardner took a job as an unpaid intern at Dean Witter. His wife had left him and he was basically homeless for a period of time while taking care of his young son. I don’t think I’m spoiling anything to share that the guy eventually ended up a vice president and did quite well for himself. I remember seeing the original story on 20/20 or 60 Minutes years ago. I’m surprised it took them this long to make a movie about it! Gardner’s is truly a wonderful story about facing down adversity and overcoming obstacles. Normally I don’t fall for that kind of tripe. But hey, it’s the holidays!
A quick note for those of you who ordered shirts a few weeks ago – I’m having some problems with the printer and they don’t think they can turn the shirts around until early next week sometime. If you’re in the lower 48, there’s still a good chance you’ll get your order before the holiday. But if anyone was patiently waiting by their mailbox for their order to arrive, I wanted to let them know the score. Everyone who ordered books, however… your purchases have been mailed.
That’s all I’ve got for now. Have a great weekend everybody!
