“Forrest Gump” was a movie I watched countless times as a kid. Released in the summer of 1994, it aired on television in a seemingly endless loop, so much so that I got sick of it. Decades passed, and I finally sat down to watch it again. I was astonished that a fun movie from my childhood has grown in my heart into a truly amazing film.
It’s called an American comedy-drama. You could include the genres of war and romance, and emotion if that were an option. At its surface, it’s an ode to 20th century American history (more on that later). Robert Zemeckis directed the film, based off the 1986 novel of the same name by Winston Groom. Eric Roth wrote the screenplay.
“Forrest Gump” is rich with accolades. It was the top-grossing film in the United States in 1994, earning $678 million against a budget of $55 million. The movie was nominated for thirteen Academy Awards and would win six. It took the coveted Best Picture Oscar amidst heavy competition in “Pulp Fiction” and “The Shawshank Redemption.”
Lauded for its editing, performances, and soundtrack, the Library of Congress has selected the film for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.
The Plot
From his now iconic park bench in Savannah, Georgia, Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) recants his life story to various passersby.
Gump is a kind-hearted but mentally simple man from rural Alabama. Bullied as a child for his slow wit and leg braces, young Forrest lives with his mom (Sally Field) in massive estate that duals as a boarding house. Jenny, a neighbor girl, is his only friend.
Forrest joins the army and befriends Bubba (Mykelti Williamson). The pair are sent to Vietnam, where they serve under the command of Lieutenant Dan Taylor (Gary Sinise). That’s enough content for a full movie, and here it covers about 10% of the story.
The tale of Forrest Gump’s life seems unbelievable. Random occurrences continuously lead him into some of the most epic moments in the history of the United States. Starting with the simplicity of the 1950s and culminating with the turmoil of the 60s and 70s, Forrest always finds himself in extraordinary circumstances. Despite his unbelievable travels, he always longs for his one true love, Jenny (Robin Wright).
Untouchable Acting
Tom Hanks owned the 1990s. His resume for that decade alone reads like the Murderers’ Row lineup. “A League of their Own,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” “Philadelphia,” “Appollo 13,” “Toy Story,” “Saving Private Ryan,” “The Green Mile,” “Cast Away.” And that’s leaving things off.
All that said, Forrest Gump may be Hanks’ most memorable performance. It’s a tough character to play. Hanks successfully makes us believe Gump is not book smart, but existentially wise. He’s simple and sweet. The character isn’t likeable, he’s loveable. Tom Hanks is the only actor that could navigate these waters, making us believe the unbelievable as we follow along on the journey.
Robin Wright serves as a perfect compliment. Jenny is a far more complex character. Growing up in an abusive home, her life takes a different course, though it’s understandable why. Watching this time, I couldn’t help but think you could make an interesting parallel story that follows Jenny’s life, far different than Forrest’s but equally intriguing. At times unlikeable, at times frustrating, Robin Wright does an excellent job of making us understand why Forrest always comes back to her.
Supporting Cast
Mykelti Williamson who I also know from “Con Air,” “Twelve Angry Men,” and “24” is an actor I always like. Benjamin Buford “Bubba” Blue is a man almost as mentally innocent as Forrest. Bubba’s dream is to become a shrimp boat captain, which includes comical interactions with Forrest. The pair have a very touching relationship.
Gary Sinise was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. And deservedly so. His character Lieutenant Dan goes through major changes throughout the course of the story, though I won’t spoil his arc here.
Off screen, Gary Sinise’s own life was impacted by the film. Sinise became a strong supporter of the U.S. military, veterans’ affairs, and humanitarian work. He formed a music group aptly called The Lt. Dan Band to perform at USO shows, entertain troops, and raise money for disabled veterans.
The Bathos Balance
“Forrest Gump” is a film about relationships. There are truly deep connections explored between Forrest and his mom, Forrest and Lieutenant Dan, and Forrest and Jenny. Of course, the superfluous relationships Forrest has with various famous people lend to the comedy.
The movie uses early CGI techniques to place Forrest Gump in various historical circumstances and meeting the likes of Elvis Presley, John Lennon, JFK, Richard Nixon etc. The technology of the time isn’t seamless, and it’s all better for it. We know it’s not real, so the flaws bolster the humor of the story and never detract from it.
It’s a perfect balance of bathos in a running time of 137 minutes that never gets dull.
The Soundtrack
Composer Alan Silvestri includes an emotional score that’s subtle, riding the waves of the performers without overshadowing their scenes.
The soundtrack itself is a thing of legend. A double disc with over 30 tracks from yesteryear. Each song a hit, each one perfectly fitted into the scene it’s in. The soundtrack is remarkable at telling the story and transitioning time periods like none other.
One of the Best
“Forrest Gump” is one of the best films ever made, and that’s not overstating things. Characters, quotes, and even memes have been left in its legacy and continue to this day.
Its full of emotion, both sad and good. You may not have enough tears to get through this epic journey.
I’m glad I rediscovered it.
