"For his son, one man will reach for the impossible."
The Pursuit of Happyness - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
Don't ever let somebody tell you you can't do something. Not even me. All right? You got a dream, you gotta protect it. People can't do something themselves, they wanna tell you you can't do it. If you want something, go get it. Period.
— Chris Gardner
Context:
Chris says this to his son after briefly discouraging him while they are playing basketball on a rooftop court. He immediately regrets his negativity and uses the moment to teach his son (and himself) a powerful lesson about protecting one's aspirations.
Meaning:
This is arguably the film's most iconic and central quote, encapsulating its core message of determination and self-belief. Chris imparts this wisdom to his son, but he is also speaking to himself, reinforcing his own resolve to protect his dream against all odds and naysayers.
It was right then that I started thinking about Thomas Jefferson on the Declaration of Independence and the part about our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And I remember thinking: How did he know to put the 'pursuit' part in there? That maybe happiness is something that we can only pursue. And maybe we can actually never have it, no matter what.
— Chris Gardner (Voiceover)
Context:
This is part of Chris's narration as he reflects on his struggles. It comes during a moment of deep hardship, providing a philosophical framework for his relentless efforts and the film's title.
Meaning:
This quote reflects the film's philosophical underpinning. It questions the nature of happiness, suggesting it's not a final state to be achieved but an ongoing journey. The 'pursuit' is what gives life meaning, even when the goal itself seems unattainable. It provides a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the film's title and theme.
This part of my life... this little part... is called 'Happiness.'
— Chris Gardner (Voiceover)
Context:
Chris says this in a voiceover at the very end of the film, after he has been offered the full-time stockbroker position. He walks through the crowded streets, fighting back tears of joy, as he realizes he has finally made it. The real Chris Gardner makes a cameo, walking past him in this scene.
Meaning:
This poignant line redefines what 'happiness' means. After enduring immense struggle, the moment of achieving his goal isn't a grand, euphoric celebration but a quiet, profound sense of arrival and relief. It suggests that happiness can be found in small, hard-won moments of triumph rather than a perpetual state of joy.