There's no reason to doubt the direness of Gardner's circumstances—they were originally recounted in a touching episode of 20/20—but the way they're depicted onscreen seems more calculated than genuine. It's a rags-to-riches story where the rags get all the close-ups. Every tear is underlined so that the exuberance at the end can be highlighted.
Gardner eventually lands an internship at Dean Witter, apparently getting his foot in the door by brandishing his skills with a certain multicolored puzzle. We are told that only one in 20 will actually get the job, but if Will Smith can save the world from aliens (thrice over and counting), he shouldn't have any trouble with stocks and bonds.
The biggest change is replacing Gardner's infant son with Smith's own 8-year-old, Jaden. This relationship shines. It's more than just matching a charismatic movie star with his cute offspring. There is a touching sincerity between the two that can't be imitated. It's enough to make an audience forget that they're being manipulated.
At the helm is Italian director Gabriele Muccino, making his English-language debut. His direction suggests a seamless transition to Hollywood sheen and slick Oscar-baiting. That should bring the studio executives, at least, much happyness.