

After Earth with James III
Mar 25, 2016
James III, a comedian and co-host of the Black Men Can’t Jump in Hollywood podcast, joins for a lively discussion on After Earth. They delve into Will Smith's multifaceted involvement in the film and its impact on his family dynamics, especially regarding Jaden's emancipation. The trio humorously critiques M. Night Shyamalan's career trajectory and the film's lackluster execution, revealing insights on character depth and the father-son narrative. Plus, they explore the pressures young actors face in Hollywood amid amusing anecdotes and commentary.
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Will Smith's Peak Fame Era
- Will Smith had an uncontested run as the biggest star from 2002 to 2008.
- His run included major hits like Men in Black 2 and Hitch, rarely missing at the box office.
Authentic Father-Son Casting Impact
- Having a real father-son casting in After Earth added believable emotional weight to their scenes.
- Their real relationship made the father-son dynamic more convincing on screen.
Will Smith's Creative Control
- Will Smith heavily coached his son Jaden's performance and influenced the story in After Earth.
- Despite M. Night Shyamalan directing, Will Smith was the dominant creative force on set.