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Damn, I didn’t remember that this film would hit me so emotionally. It's an above-average experience with Will Smith in the lead role. Even the opening scene with the 911 call indicated to the viewer that the main character wouldn’t see a happy ending. Although, considering the goal Tim Thomas set for himself, maybe the ending worked as the best redemption for the tragedy Tim caused. The film definitely plays on emotions, I admit that, but on the other hand, the performances and various dialogues are so natural that in the end, it doesn’t feel like the film is forcing anything on you. And that’s what sets it apart from many competitors—the ability to present such a tragic yet beautiful story in such a flawless package. I didn’t quite understand Will Smith’s missed nomination. To portray a man whose conscience weighs heavily on him and who decides to take such an admirable, for many incomprehensible, step—that takes talent. Honestly, I was fully convinced by his performance. Woody Harrelson shone in a supporting role, and Rosario Dawson was also a pleasant surprise. And the ending is an absolute tearjerker, and it broke me. I give it 8/10. (26.08.2016)

A vibe similar to The Pursuit of Happyness. Here, though, there's also a heartbreaking ending. One of those movies that evokes strong emotions in me. A beautiful and moving script. Will Smith gives the performance of a lifetime and is extremely charismatic. Direction by G. Muccino suits him perfectly. (14.02.2011)

Somehow I wasn’t sure at the beginning why this was all happening and where the whole story was going. For a good hour you don’t know anything for sure. Will’s acting is great and as usual he’s a nice guy. On the other hand the main evil (or bad guy) I see here is a JOB, any kind of job which is waiting for you round every corner and keeps on bothering you constantly via your cell phone. Your job is meant to serve your life, not the other way round. (29.03.2009)

This is the classic assault on the emotions that I think most people will like. A man who has suffered a lot is trying to help other people. He wants to draw a rather thick line under everything and leave nothing unresolved. How does it feel when someone gives you the gift of a new life? You're probably not expecting it. How will you react? Would you be suspicious? Probably. This is a topic that could yield an incredible amount of ideas and twists, but the creators opted for a savior romantic approach. Emotions, emotions, emotions. There are so many in there that it left me cold in the end. That’s too bad. (19.03.2014)

A kitschy play on emotions that runs out of surprises after less than half an hour. It’s been long since I last saw such a predictable and yet relatively ambitious film. Otherwise, it has everything: a joyful run on a beach, a dramatic run in the rain, photos on a wall and newspaper clippings. Cliché incarnated. (26.02.2011)