Seven Pounds - A movie with a Shakespeare twist

"Seven Pounds" is a movie starring actor, Will Smith,  who portrays a man carrying a very large burden and the actions he takes to lift that burden.  The story does not become clear until very near the end.  A few very sharp individuals will figure it out sooner but many, including me, did not. 

While several of Mr. Smith's movies have had humorous plots, two of the last three of his films have been rather dark.   While "I Am Legend" is a movie that deals with an "end of the world" scenario, "Seven Pounds" deals with atonment for a terrible mistake. 

Most of us remember high school English with a mixture of nostalgia and nausea.  One of the frequently taught subjects was the Shakespeare play, "The Merchant of Venice".  Those of us who had to endure the Elizabethan language of this work learned about a debt to be paid in a very unusual way.  This is the subtext of "Seven Pounds".

My thoughts about the movie are:

• Will Smith did a great job of acting in this movie.
• The subject matter was "heavy".
• The movie will keep most us guessing about where the plot is headed until the end.
• It is very sad, and the story tells of atonement and a reaffirmation of life.

I recommend this movie to those who can handle an "in your face" drama and an amazing ending.  Some may not like it.  My wife describes it as "Seven Tons" for the way it affected her.  Will Smith again demonstrates his versatility as an actor.  Pass the Kleenex....