“Run, Forrest! Run!” —Jenny
Today’s quick review: Forrest Gump. Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), a simple-minded man from rural Alabama, witnesses some of the defining events of the 20th century as life takes him across America and around the globe. From Washington, D.C., to the jungles of Vietnam, Forrest accepts each new situation with the same quiet optimism. But no matter how far he travels, he keeps coming back to Jenny Curran (Robin Wright), his childhood friend.
Forrest Gump is a dramatic comedy and romance starring Tom Hanks. The film is part character portrait and part period piece. Forrest unknowingly has a hand in some of the most famous events in American history as he’s tossed around by fate. The odd events of Forrest’s storied life, his obliviousness, and his kind-hearted treatment of those around him make Forrest Gump an endearing comedy that offers a unique perspective on American culture.
At the same time, Forrest Gump is an effective drama. Forrest’s low intelligence shields him from the full impact of what’s going on around him, but the film itself touches on heavy topics like the Vietnam War, drug culture, and the political turmoil of the 60s and 70s. On a more personal level, the events of Forrest’s life are not easy for him either. Seeing him cope with hardship is a surprisingly potent reward for following his lighter adventures.
Forrest Gump is a movie with a lot to offer. Forrest Gump has a skillful performance by Tom Hanks, a far-reaching plot with a rich historical setting, and personal moments that cover a wide a spectrum of emotion, all of which add up to a unique experience. How much you get out of it will depend heavily on your taste in humor, drama, and cultural commentary, but Forrest Gump casts a wide enough net to be worth a watch even for skeptical viewers.
For an adventurous comedy about the unlikely story of a man’s life, try Big Fish or Secondhand Lions. For a wry comedy with a similar premise, try Being There. For a romantic drama with some of the same feel to it, try The Notebook or Dear John.
8.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for a well-crafted story and a likable lead.