Rewind, Review, Re-Rate: ‘Seven Pounds’: Tear-Hijacker Doesn’t Ring True

Rewind, Review, Re-Rate: ‘Seven Pounds’: Tear-Hijacker Doesn’t Ring True
Will Smith has shown his wide-ranging talent in many films. "Seven Pounds" isn't one of them. Sony Pictures Releasing
Ian Kane
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Looking back on Will Smith’s body of work, it’s clear that he is a more-than-capable actor in both action-oriented (“I am Legend,” “Hancock”) and dramatic roles, and of course, comedic ones (“Hitch,” “Focus”). But in Italian director Gabriele Muccino “Seven Pounds,” Smith is cast against type as a much more tragic character than we’re used to seeing.

In Muccino’s 2008 drama, Smith plays Ben Thomas, an IRS agent with a big secret. Ben is on a mission to be of service to seven total strangers in order to pay off a debt of penance. He blames himself for the death of his beloved wife because of some cellphone fumbling while driving.

Ian Kane
Ian Kane
Author
Ian Kane is an U.S. Army veteran, author, filmmaker, and actor. He is dedicated to the development and production of innovative, thought-provoking, character-driven films and books of the highest quality.
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