Starring: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson and Michael Ealy
Directed by: Gabriele Muccino
Rated PG-13 for thematic material, some disturbing content and a scene of sensuality
By John Delia
Seven Pounds is one of those films that due to the storyline becomes very hard to review. Since it is a Sixth Sense type of mystery drama, telling all the plot will give too much away. I liked the film very much and if you are into movies that have a twist, then it’s a must see for you. Transition form the big screen to DVD did not change the suspense or the quality of the performances.
US Treasury Agent Ben Thomas (Smith) is on a personal mission that will affect the lives of seven strangers. The extraordinary journey is one of redemption, kindness and fate. During a short span of time Thomas will touch the hearts, minds and futures of his subjects, each not knowing why. When everything comes together, however, it’s up to the audience to decide if the end justifies the means.
Smith gives a brilliant performance as the determined Treasury Agent investigating people who seem to be random, but yet have common issues that are medical related. His acting ability in this dramatic role outshines anything he has done before with the exception of The Pursuit of Happyness. In both roles he played a strong willed person determined to meet his goal, but due to the deceptive storyline of Seven Pounds I did not feel the realistic passion that was exhibited in Happyness.
Supporting characters in the film are not a big factor. Beyond the love story where Ben Thomas connects with Emily played by Rosario Dawson, each of the other roles are only there to give credence to the plot. Dawson gives one of her best efforts as Emily making me a believer that her persuasive romance has brought hope to the investigating IRS Agent.
Direction by Muccino is very good in this manipulative storyline. In this second meeting with Smith (he also directed Pursuit of Happyness) he was able to draw out the vulnerable side of the actor. His actions have to show an urgency and, with the creative cinematography combined with Smiths excellent effort, I found myself getting an anxious feeling from the very beginning of the drama to it’s inventive ending.
The DVD has some good special bonus features including some deleted scenes that are insignificant and do not help nor detract from the plot, Creating the perfect ensemble with commentary by casting director and director Muccino about choosing the cast, Seven Views that features crew members from the writer to the location manager, The Box Jellyfish that give you a close up and personal view of one of the most dangerous animals on earth and many more great features.
The DVD is rated PG-13 for thematic material, some disturbing content and a scene of sensuality so be careful not to watch the film with immature children present. If you have never seen the film before, do not watch the bonus features first, and if you have seen it in theatres, turn on the commentary for a different viewpoint of the film.
FINAL ANALYSIS: Seven Pounds is a very good emotional drama with a creative twist. (4 of 5 Palm Trees)