Thandie Newton

"Crash" star Thandie Newton is joining Will Smith in the drama "The Pursuit of Happyness," Variety reports.

The story focuses on a marginally employed salesman who wins custody of his young son just as he is about to begin a stock brokerage internship program. The father and son end up in a homeless shelter, and endure many hardships as they persue their dream of success.

Newton will play Smith's estranged wife and the mother of his son.

The movie, directed by Italian helmer Gabriele Muccino, is scheduled to begin production in the next few weeks.

Newton's other film credits include "Mission Impossible II," "The Chronicles of Riddick," "Shade" and "Beloved."

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