Forrest Gump - Review

“Run, Forrest, run” – A review of Forrest Gump. 

I love an emotional story, whether that be in a film, book, tv show or video game. I firmly believe that if a piece of media can make me cry, it’s done a fantastic job. I like to forget that whatever media I’m experiencing isn’t real, I like to feel like I’m experiencing it with the characters, and if a piece of media can make me cry, the likelihood is it’s done that well. Boy, does Forrest Gump deliver this.

Forrest Gump, played by Tom Hanks, is an innocent, earnest man with a lower-than-average IQ which leads him to see the world with child-like wonder. He is a deeply loyal, devoted man who didn’t let his own limitations stop him from leading an incredible life. Whilst being deeply poignant and emotional, Forrest Gump isn’t just sad for the sake of it; it’s an unforgettable story of a man overcoming all the odds to experience life to the fullest, whether this be his successes or his heartbreaks.

Forrest may not be a genius, but this does not mean he lacks depth. Reflective and kind, Forrest is the type of character you can’t help but love and want the best for. His story spans some turbulent decades in US history, as we see several momentous historical events, such as the Vietnam war, through his eyes. Forrest isn’t your typical hero; he is deeply kind, tender and sincere, and this is shown through his relationships with those around him. He is an ordinary man, but an extraordinary hero, showing that you don’t need to be a ruthless genius to lead a successful and fulfilling life.

It's charming to watch Forrest tell his life’s story to a variety of strangers. He lived no ordinary life; he exposed scandals, sparked the sexual revolution, loved, lost, met presidents and even earned the Medal of Honour. We watch Forrest make a huge difference throughout history, even when he himself doesn’t realise how important his actions and experiences have been, and whilst these moments aren’t always completely believable, they do make this a sincere, optimistic film about vulnerability, hope and love.

Despite the action and adventure throughout the film, for me this is a love story before all else. Whilst the film shows us beautiful bursts of joy and triumph, we also see love, loss and grief, especially when it comes to Jenny. Jenny, played by Robin Wright, is the love of Forrest’s life. The relationship between the two is bittersweet, full of moments of connection, longing and heartbreak. No matter what Forrest experiences or achieves, his longing and love for Jenny is a constant, with his love for her often guiding his actions, his devotion to her being unwavering even when his love for her goes unfulfilled. Their story is as beautiful as it is devastating.

Despite being decades old now, Forrest Gump still resonates with audiences worldwide. The setting of the film, an America of the past, is nostalgic, sometimes turbulent but often hopeful. The score is often melancholic, yet still beautiful, adding more depth and emotional to what is already a deeply moving film.

I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to fully forgive this film for the heartache it made me experience. All I wanted was for Forrest to be happy, to find true love with Jenny, and to live happily ever after. Despite his many successes, fame and fortune, Forrest doesn’t live a perfect life. I won’t spoil it but be prepared to experience devastatingly heartbreaking loss which is sure to make you cry.

Heartfelt, honest and unforgettable, Forrest Gump reminds audiences to hold on to what really matters. Exploring love and the power of tenacity and perseverance against nearly impossible odds, Forrest Gump has some beautiful messages. Life can be like a box of chocolates since you’ll never know what you’re going to get, but your own kindness and compassion can also shape your fate.

Is Forrest Gump perfect? Probably not. It has moments which are slightly difficult to believe and it’s so sweet it feels like a box of chocolates in film form. With that said, it won awards and accolades for good reason. This is an optimistic film full of hope, beauty and love, and one which will stay with you always.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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