Forrest Gump: Review

Released in 1994, Forrest Gump has now become an incredibly classic movie. Starring Tom Hanks as the iconic character of Forrest Gump, the film tells the story of Forrest, from his childhood all the way until his older years. He somehow managed to be present at many key dates in American history, from the Vietnam war to the Watergate scandal. 

The simplest way to describe Forrest Gump is that it's an emotional, funny and heart-warming film about a man who is unable to act out nastiness intentionally, who would give anything in the world for the love of his life Jenny (Robin Wright). While in Vietnam, Forrest meets a man named Bubba (Mykelti Williamson) who soon becomes his "best good friend". 

Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) 

The most surprising thing about Forrest Gump is how emotional it gets. Touching on issues such as child abuse, drug use and sexual assault, it may be a little mature at times for it's 12a rating, but there are moments which never fail to make me choke up, one of a very small list of films able to do so. It's also a very feel-good movie though, with many funny scenes and countless loveable characters. 

For me though, one of the most memorable features of the film isn't the engrossing story, or the incredible acting by Tom Hanks. No, for me, the soundtrack of Forrest Gump is perfectly suited to what is happening on-screen. With songs like 'Fortunate Son' accompanying scenes set in Vietnam, or a personal favourite 'Free Bird' played during a drug sequence, in my opinion it stands out along with films such as Pulp Fiction for having a perfectly chosen musical score which compliments the film exceedingly well. 

There's very little wrong with Forrest Gump. It's funny, entertaining and moving. The only minor complaint I could have is how at times, some of the accompanying actors are out-shined by Tom Hanks' incredible role. This is barely a negative however, standing testament to just how accomplished Tom is as an actor. 

Verdict
Forrest Gump is a classic movie which will be enjoyable for many years to come. Almost 20 years old, I had as much fun watching it the fourth time as I did the first. The list of people who haven't seen it may be a minority, but if you haven't I really do urge you to do so, as it more than lives up to the years of hype it has received.       9/10

"Mumma always said: dying was a part of life...

I sure wish it wasn't."