Seven Pounds is a drama from the same director/actor pair that brought The Pursuit of Happyness to screen. Italian director, Gabriele Muccino, works his magic again as yet another moving, humane and inspiring story is translated into film. He’s aided by Will Smith, whose performances keep getting better and better in his bid for an Oscar. Seven Pounds is no different, and he’s supported by Rosario Dawson and Woody Harrelson in a touching, intimate journey of redemption. The script is written by Grant Nieporte in his big screen debut, and the powerful message manages to intertwine melancholy and triumph of the human spirit. Audiences will identify with Seven Pounds, as its characters seek for a greater connection in their “unremarkable” lives. The film will irritate and deter the cynical at heart, who vest very little hope in humanity, while others would do well to have a tissue available.
The best way to describe Seven Pounds is to say that it’s a strange mix of City of Angels and 21 Grams. Will Smith plays Ben Thomas, an IRS agent with a personal agenda. At first, one is reminded of Stranger Than Fiction with the IRS, unexplained events and the blossoming of an unlikely romance. However, Muccino deftly drops breadcrumbs along the path of extraordinary kindness towards unveiling the big secret. Thomas is like a guardian angel to seven complete strangers, who receive his goodwill. This unconditional benevolence and his fostering a romance with Emily (Dawson), are what parallel with City of Angels. Then the flip side of the coin is the emotional intensity and secrecy that underlies the plot, which have similarities to 21 Grams.
Seven Pounds has an excellent, original story that makes its audience feel more connected to life. Ben’s actions are alien to most people, as he offers up his time, energy, love, patience and material goods to people that need them. He really does seem like an angel in Seven Pounds, and his performance is strong. Rosario Dawson is also sensational, and the two have great on-screen chemistry that doesn’t feel forced. Their situation is dire like Griffin & Phoenix, but Muccino never loses the audience’s attention. The script is personal, the drama is gripping and the secretive machinations keep the mysterious stranger’s mission alive with possibilities. However, Seven Pounds is maudlin and steeps itself in sadness. The joy experienced by each stranger doesn’t seem to make our hero’s quest feel any easier. While the star-crossed lovers are bound to be separated. This heavy, somber mood is a burden for anyone expecting romance and light comic moments from Will Smith.
Smith demonstrates his amazing range and his heaviness is palpable. Although sometimes you just want to slap him and tell him to ‘lighten up’ and take stock of his good deeds. Nevertheless, Seven Pounds is a gripping and emotional journey that makes for compelling viewing. One can forgive the production for the borderline melodrama, when the credits roll and its message powers home. Seven Pounds isn’t going to change your life, but it will make Javier Bardem’s The Sea Inside seem selfish. Watch Seven Pounds for its power, Nieporte’s heartbreaking story, Muccino’s insightful direction and solid performances from Will Smith and Rosario Dawson.
The bottom line: Emotional.
