I totally agree with your comment about this movie making you "laugh, cry and want to watch it again with your friends". I was touched by this movie's reality, with the fact that the writers, directors and even actors didn't fluff it up and shy away from the true difficulty of the story. I was surprised at times when Smith would get frustrated at his son and truly be that stressed-out parent. He played it so well, as did Jayden did. (Although I'd venture a guess that right after those particular scenes, Will probably called, "Cut!" and made sure Jayden was okay and not truly upset!) I also appreciated that Smith's character was always trying to challenge and teach his son, play with him, and while he didn't gloss over everything, he tried to instill a positive outlook and drive in his son. Many times throughout this movie I said, "This guy just can't catch a break!". And yet, at the end of it, when you see that he does suceed probably for the rest of his life, it made me realize something else. That often things in this life aren't freely handed to us. We have to work hard, sometimes until we're at our wits' end. But it's often worth it in the end and seems to be rewarded when we do things right and with integrity. I think the real lesson I took away from this movie is that, while sucess might eventually happen for you, let it always be tempered with your roots. Don't forget the grit under your fingernails and how hard you worked just because it's easier now. Take nothing for granted and ALWAYS make today (even if it's tough) the very best day you can.
*Be kinder than necessary. Everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.*