Latest news with #ThePursuitofHappyness
Pink Villa
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Why Did Will Smith Reject Inception Before Leonardo DiCaprio Came on Board? Actor Reveals ‘I'm Hurt By…'
Will Smith is getting real about the Christopher Nolan directorial, claiming it came to him first before being offered to Leonardo DiCaprio, who went on to give a career-defining role, rewriting history. Inception was released in 2010, and many years after it became a smashing hit, the 56-year-old is revealing how it was he who was second in line for the role of the professional thief named Dom Cobb, just behind Brad Pitt. Will Smith's unsuccessful run-in with Christopher Nolan's Inception The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star is no stranger to giving up roles that go on to become highly popular. Having denied The Matrix, which Keanu Reeves then took on, and then rejected Django Unchained, which was spearheaded by Jamie Foxx, eventually, the actor has now opened up on another immensely popular release, which was set to be under his name. Talking on the Kiss Xtra radio station, Will Smith said, 'I don't think I've ever said it publicly, but I am going to say it because we are opening up to one another, Chris Nolan brought me Inception first and I didn't get it.' Surprisingly, the actor is chalking up the miss to his inability to understand the concept. He went on to add that he had never spoken about it before, but 'those movies that go into those alternate realities… they don't pitch well'. He added, 'But I am hurt by those, too.' Previously, The Hollywood Reporter shared about Will Smith's alleged involvement in the project, but further details had been kept under wraps. It seems that the dream-sharing film was not his worst miss, as the actor revealed how declining the Neo role for The Matrix 'hurts too bad to talk about' instead. Will Smith has missed quite a few hit opportunities, but his filmography continues to be star-studded with movies like The Pursuit of Happyness receiving just as much love many years later, if not more.
NDTV
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Will Smith Rejected This Christopher Nolan Film Because He "Didn't Get It"
Will Smith, known for his performances in films like Emancipation, Men in Black and The Pursuit of Happyness, says he rejected filmmaker Christopher Nolan's Inception because he didn't understand what the film was trying to say. Will Smith was set to play Dominic Cobb, the main protagonist in the 2010 sci-fi superhit film Inception. Leonardo DiCaprio eventually played the part. The film follows Dominic Cobb, a thief who infiltrates people's dreams to steal secrets or plant ideas. In an interview with UK radio station Kiss, as quoted by Variety, Will Smith revealed, "I don't think I've ever said it publicly, but I am going to say it because we are opening up to one another. Chris Nolan brought me Inception first, and I didn't get it. I've never said that out loud." "Now that I think about it, it's those movies that go into those alternate realities… They don't pitch well. But I am hurt by those, too," he added. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Christopher Nolan first offered Inception to Brad Pitt and 'requested a response within 48 hours". When the actor didn't commit, the filmmaker approached Will Smith. After Will Smith rejected the movie, he took the film to Leonardo DiCaprio. This isn't the only film Will Smith has passed that later became a global sensation. The actor was also offered the role of Neo (eventually played by Keanu Reeves) in Lana and Lilly Wachowski's The Matrix. In a 2019 YouTube video, the actor said he didn't connect with the Wachowski siblings' pitch as it was more about their intended directing style and not about the actual story. Will Smith also turned down Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained. The filmmaker wanted him to play the titular role. The film ultimately went to Jamie Foxx. Will Smith later told GQ magazine that he turned the film down because he "didn't want to make a slavery film about vengeance".
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Father's Day: Celebrate the day with films that cherish the father-son bond
Father's Day is a time to honour the role of fathers and their presence in our lives. Many films capture this special bond, portraying both challenges and moments of connection between fathers and sons. This curated list highlights movies that explore these relationships through various genres and settings. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) shows a man facing poverty while raising his son. Despite setbacks, he works hard to build a better life. His bond with his son drives his actions. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) explores the journey of Indiana as he searches for his father. The movie highlights their emotional reconnection and teamwork. The Lion King (2019) The Lion King presents how a son is shaped after losing his father. Mufasa's death influences Simba's path in life and teaches him responsibility. Hook (1991) Hook follows a father who has forgotten his youth. He reconnects with his son by remembering who he once was. Live Events Beautiful Boy (2018) Beautiful Boy (2018) follows a father and son dealing with addiction. The story shows the emotional weight of trying to help a loved one recover. Also Read: Nintendo Switch 2 Restock: Is new console available at My Nintendo Store, Walmart, Target, GameStop, Best Buy, Amazon, Costco and Staples? Here's how to buy Switch 2 and price Father of the Bride (1991) Father of the Bride (1991) depicts a father who struggles with his daughter's marriage. The film focuses on family changes and acceptance. Fiddler on the Roof (1971) Fiddler on the Roof (1971) shows a father in 1905 Ukraine who deals with changing traditions as his daughters make their own choices. King Richard (2021) King Richard (2021) tells the story of Venus and Serena Williams' father. It shows how he guided their tennis careers while trying to protect them. Big Fish (2003) Big Fish (2003) shares the journey of a son trying to understand his father's life. The film blends memories and imagination. Also Read: Echo Valley: New thriller's release date, where to watch, storyline, creative team and cast Honey Boy (2019) Honey Boy (2019) is based on the writer's real life. It explores a child actor's complicated relationship with his father, focusing on healing and understanding. Road to Perdition (2002) Road to Perdition (2002) features a father who tries to protect his son in a world of crime. Their journey reveals sacrifice and loyalty. The Road (2009) The Road (2009) follows a father and son in a post-apocalyptic world. Despite challenges, the father remains focused on his son's safety and future. FAQs Why are father-son films popular on Father's Day? They reflect real emotions, showing both challenges and love. These stories help people relate to their own family experiences. Are these movies suitable for all age groups? Most films are suitable for teens and adults. Parents should check ratings for younger viewers before watching.
Pink Villa
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
8 Movies Like The Shawshank Redemption to Add to Your Watch List: The Irishman to A Beautiful Mind
The Shawshank Redemption is the one movie that worked as a progressive arc for the industry. Not only were the fans hooked to the screens till the end, but they were also left craving for more. The Morgan Freeman starrer was up for the Academy Awards, but the cast and the crew of the film were left with no prize. The film is based on the central theme of Hope, and below are some movies like The Shawshank Redemption. The Irishman Director: Martin Scorsese Release Year: 2019 Genre: Crime/Drama IMDB Rating: 7.8 Where to Watch: Netflix The Irishman is a perfect watch for fans of the crime and thriller genres. The Martin Scorsese directorial is set in the town of Pennsylvania, where a truck driver, portrayed by the legendary Robert de Niro, goes on to become the top hitman. He also gets involved with the powerful Teamster, who has ties to the criminals. The film also stars Al Pacino and Joe Pesci. The movie resonates well with The Shawshank Redemption as it is well settled on the theme of prison survival. 12 Years a Slave Director: Steve McQueen Release Year: 2014 Genre: Drama/History IMDB Rating: 8.1/10 Where to Watch: Apple TV Based on the true and tragic story of Solomon Northup, 12 Years a Slave is a heart-wrenching film. The fans of The Shawshank Redemption would love the movie, considering it features elements of slavery, prison, and the hope and human spirit winning in the end. The film stars Chiwetel, playing the lead role. The plot of the movie revolves around a freeman being offered a job as a musician in the US. However, upon reaching, Northup is drugged and sent into the slave prison. Brad Pitt also makes an appearance in this cinematic piece that won three Oscars. The Pursuit of Happyness Director: Gabriele Muccino Release Year: 2007 Genre: Family/Drama IMDB Rating: 8/10 Where to Watch: Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Will Smith proves his potential in The Pursuit of Happyness. The movie is based on the theme of motivation and hope, similar to that of The Shawshank Redemption. The story of the cinematic piece revolves around Chris Gardner, who is attempting to improve his life for himself and his son, whose custody is with Chris after his wife left him. The Oscar-winning film is most likely to leave the audience weeping. The Green Mile Director: Frank Darabont Release Year: 2000 Genre: Fantasy/Drama IMDB Rating: 8.6/10 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime The Green Mile is quite similar to The Shawshank Redemption on many levels. The 2000 film stars Tom Hanks and Michael Clark Duncan as the lead characters. They play the roles of the prison guard and the prisoner, respectively. The movie is hailed by the same director as the former one and tells the tale of a black man who is convicted of the murder of two girls. When Paul Edgecomb, played by Hanks, meets the prisoner, his life changes, knowing that the latter possesses special skills. The movie received four Oscar nominations that year. Scent of a Woman The screens light up with Al Pacino's presence in Scent of a Woman. The movie is a perfect choice for fans of the thriller genre. The film revolves around a preschool student who is in desperate need of money. To earn a living, he agrees to help a visually impaired Colonel as his caregiver. Lesser known to the student, portrayed by Chris O'Donnell, the latter has motives of his own. The movie was up for Oscars, and Al Pacino went on to win it in the category of Best Actor. The Pelican Brief Director: Alan J. Pakula Release Year: 1993 Genre: Thriller/Crime IMDB Rating: 6.6 Where to Watch: Apple TV Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts starrer The Pelican Brief is set against the backdrop of a whodunnit. The plot of the film states that when two Supreme Court judges are killed, a college student, Sam, is given the intel on who the murderer is. Shortly after, Sam is assassinated, and it is all on his girlfriend, Darcy, to find out the truth. Fans of The Shawshank Redemption are sure to love it, as, just like Frank Darabont directorial, The Pelican Brief also talks about hope and following one's instincts. A Beautiful Mind Director: Ron Howard Release Year: 2000 Genre: Thriller/Romance IMDB Rating: 8.3 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV Ron Howard struck gold with A Beautiful Mind. When a genius mathematician, Josh Nash, believes himself to be in a lot of pain, he discovers he is suffering from a disorder. The movie stars Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly. Moreover, fans of The Shawshank Redemption are in for a treat, as the film tells the tale of a triumph for the human spirit and freedom. The movie also won four Oscars in 2001. Shutter Island Director: Martin Scorsese Release Year: 2010 Genre: Thriller/Mystery IMDB Rating: 8.2/10 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Shutter Island proves to be one of Leonardo DiCaprio 's best works. The movie revolves around two US marshals who have been sent out to an asylum on a remote island to investigate the case of the missing prisoner. The movie is quite similar to The Shawshank Redemption, as it explores the theme of freedom, features an elaborate prison story, and is known for keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the end.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
People Are Sharing The Movies That Disturbed Them So Much They Vowed To Never Watch Them Again, And Here Are The Most Surprising Ones
Earlier this month, @0xHermione asked the people of Reddit: 'What's a movie that disturbed you so much, you'd never watch it again?' The responses were varied, to say the least, with quite a few surprising choices sneaking in alongside the usual suspects of The Human Centipede, Martyrs, and A Serbian Film. Here are 18 movies that you might not have expected to make the cut: Some posts have been edited for clarity. 1.'This is probably gonna be so far out of left field but The Pursuit of Happyness unlocked a fear in me that I didn't know existed as an adolescent.' — FlexuhLot 2.'Jurassic Park. I don't recall which, but it was the one where the island gets destroyed by a volcano (Editor's note: This is in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.) At the time, I was a grieving child who had recently lost a pet cat, and watched the movie to distract myself from that loss. Seeing the Brontosaurus getting covered by the smoke just made all those feelings rush back in. Don't think I'll watch a Jurassic Park movie ever again.' — Sauce-Gaming 3.'We Live In Time with Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, I had just had my second daughter when we watched it, and I cried for 4 days straight, felt very empty inside after. Shame [because] it's such a beautiful film.' — Mozzarella_dippers 4.'Bambi. I was 6. I cried so hard I threw up and blamed the dog. He got yelled at. I've lived with that guilt for 20 years. Still won't rewatch it.' — Machineabyss764 5."The NeverEnding Story. The horse scene traumatized me when I watched it as a child, and I never watched it again.' — Green_Top_Hat 6.'Anything where the animal dies. I'm never watching Marley and Me again.' — Something-funny-26 7.'A Star Is Born. Great movie, compelling story, but just too freaking depressing.' — tardisthecat 8.'Us. The facial expressions and the big eyes from the actresses alone are enough to make me not [want] to watch it again.' — WajajaKEKW 9.'Wedding Daze. Most uncomfortable movie I've ever seen.' — IndianaFarthouse 10.'Looper. When the old guy finds the writing in his arm and then parts of him start disappearing, my mouth was agape. I was so disturbed by the whole watching again.' — marriedtomayonnaise 11.'Unpopular opinion, but The Mask. I was a kid when I watched it and it haunted me as to how people can change and wear a mask to appear nice and good.' — Mediocre-Albatross84 12.'I was going to add Final Destination 2 myself, because of the highway scene. Everyone who has seen that film refuses to drive behind log trucks because of it.' — res30stupid 13.'Million Dollar Baby. I've said it numerous times before — it's the best movie I never want to see again.' — retailguy_again 14.'I Am Legend. I could never watch that dog die again. I cried so much in cinema, it kind of broke me a little bit inside.' — iScraM 15.'Pinocchio. It's the whale. I watched horror flicks as a kids without issue but that whale? I still can't watch.' — LaoghaireElgin 16.'The Wizard of Oz. Seriously. Watched it as a very young child and the Witch of the West freaked me out.' — Sittingpretti24 17.'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. It's basically a snuff film where sentient animals are tortured disguised as a Marvel movie.' — Arglebarglor And finally… 18.'Teletubbies: The Movie. I know it's for kids, but why do they stare into the void like they know how the world ends? And that baby sun? It watched me sleep for three nights after. I didn't survive that movie… I respawned with trust issues.' — HeeledNDangerous What do you think of these choices? Let me know the unconventional movies that you find too disturbing to watch again in the comments below! More on this People Are Calling Out The Most Ridiculous Tropes That TV Shows And Movies Keep Showing That Just Aren't How People Actually LiveJoseph Longo · May 28, 2025 16 Disturbing Movie Scenes That, For One Reason Or Another, I Am Still Unable To WatchBenjamin Dzialdowski · April 15, 2025 32 Movies That Are So Freaky, You'll Probably Regret Watching ThemSpencer Althouse · Oct. 28, 2024
