Sidewalks On The Corner

Will Smith returns to a drama piece as his character tries to right the wrong he has committed by helping those in need.

Follow up:

SEVEN POUNDS
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material, some disturbing content and a scene of sensuality.
RUNNING TIME: 118 minutes
URL: sonypictures.com/movies/sevenpounds
Directed by: Gabriele Muccino
Written by: Grant Nieporte
Cast: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson, Michael Ealy, Barry Pepper, Woody Harrelson

Studio Synopsis:
Academy Award® nominee Will Smith reunites with the directors and producers of "The Pursuit of Happyness" for the emotional drama "Seven Pounds." In the film, Smith plays Ben Thomas, an IRS agent with a fateful secret who embarks on an extraordinary journey of redemption by forever changing the lives of seven strangers.

Rosario Dawson in Columbia Pictures' drama SEVEN POUNDS. Photo By: Merrick Morton SMPSP

J.P.'s Take:
In “Seven Pounds,” Will Smith plays Benjamin Thomas, an IRS agent living with a horrible secret. As he relives the past, Thomas tries to deal with the pain this secret has caused, which becomes the catalyst for a series of life saving events.

I usually don't like dramas because they almost always drown in their own mellow drama. However, in this day and age, it appears that dramas are becoming more interesting than usual. In the case of “Seven Pounds,” I found this drama to be intriguing and enjoyable. With its metaphoric storyline and emotionally charged acting, the film nearly brought me to tears. That's a difficult thing for me because of what I've mentioned above. Only one other movie nearly made me cry like a little baby and that was 2007’s "The Bucket List" (this is because I didn't think a film staring two older actors, who come to terms with both their illnesses and their own trials and tribulations, would turn out to be such a sentimental movie).

“Seven Pounds” is basically a story of redemption, deep guilt and sacrifice. In the beginning of the film, Smith feverishly rattles off seven names and continues to repeat them. He does this as he breaks furniture and kicks things around in total disgust and anger. This makes for an intriguing plot line, one which draws the audience into both the film and lives that are on displayed on screen. You want to know why he's doing this or why is he so upset and disturbed by what he is feeling. The way the film ended will definitely leave the audience talking and discussing the many meanings within the movie.

The main actors, Smith and Rosario Dawson, have great chemistry together. They've worked with each other before in "Men in Black 2," though not in the capacity such as a drama. The scenes between them start off somewhat oddly as Thomas is fascinated by her but finds a round about way of getting to know her. He looks her up and finds out information about her. Without her consent or knowledge, he shows up at the hospital to see her unannounced. It's both romantic and a tiny bit creepy in a stalker type of way. However, as they get to know one another, they become romantically involved. I though Smith gave this part his all, not that he doesn't in any roll he takes on. With each character, he makes it his own to the point where you don't see Will Smith; you see the character he is portraying. Dawson is one of those underestimated actress that flies in under the radar, but puts out some great performances. Here she plays Emily Posa, the woman with a broken heart, and although her heart is broken, she is still generous and kindhearted toward Smith’s Thomas. I think this is one of her best roles, because she feels very natural (I say that a lot about her because she is a true natural at acting).

Woody Harrelson and Will Smith in Columbia Pictures' drama SEVEN POUNDS. Photo By: Merrick Morton SMPSP

As for the remaining cast, such as Woody Harrelson and Barry Pepper, both give heartwarming performances. Harrelson gives one the kindest and gentlest performance as blind man Ezra Turner. I've never really seen him play someone so vulnerable. And Pepper is very believable as Thomas' best friend Dan, as he is torn by the decision Ben has made for his life. His heartfelt display proves he is a true best friend. Excellent work from the entire cast.

I won't give away the main plot, but I guarantee that after watching “Seven Pounds” you'll understand the significance of title and you won't be disappointed. It will leave you somewhat shocked and in deep thought. This is a drama I can get into. Good show.