A Review of Forrest Gump, a Comedy-drama Film by Robert Zemeckis

The Cinematic Impact of Forrest Gump

Winning six Academy Awards and quickly "skyrocketing" to the top of the box office in 1994, Forrest Gump quickly stole the hearts of America. A single feather is shown flowing in the opening scene, just drifting down towards a little town, its white color contrasting with the dark sky background. The credits in the beginning shots are shown in white, clearly visible but not too dominant. This feather moves towards the names on the screen to draw focus to the actors' names. High-angle shots are used to show how insignificant and small the feather is in comparison to the people and surroundings. Moreover, the feather is shown flying above the characters' heads, suggesting that people are often narrow-minded and unable to notice the little things. Wide shots are used to show the characters' full bodies, allowing the audience to notice the posture and behavior of the main character. Close-up shots of feet are shown, comparing dirty shoes with a clean feather. Gump picks up the feather, whereas others ignore it. Anyone who watches this film will relate to Gump in some way; we are not all perfect, and Gump epitomizes that truth.

A Review of Forrest Gump, a Comedy-Drama Film by Robert Zemeckis

Tom Hanks delivers an impressive performance as Forrest Gump. Acting as a grown adult with mental and physical disabilities can be a challenge for most, but not for Hanks. He presents Gump as a well-groomed man who cares deeply about his mother (Sally Field) and his childhood sweetheart, Jenny (Robin Wright). Later in the movie, I was introduced to Bubba Blue (Mykelti Williamson), an African American, unintelligent, momma's boy who is Forrest's best friend and battle buddy in the Vietnam War. Around the same time, I was introduced to Lieutenant Dan (Gary Sinise), a curt and unfriendly drill sergeant who also happens to be Gump's and Blue's superior. To make my point, I think that the entire cast made a remarkable film. After watching this film with a critical eye, the storyline is so surreal that if I didn't know it was a fictional storyline, I would think it was based on true events.

From growing up with mental and physical disabilities to being accepted into the army and playing football for the University of Alabama, Gump is such an inspirational character who lights up the entire movie. Life truly was not a piece of cake for Gump, but he overcame all his obstacles. Watching this incredible story unfold of a young, brittle boy who becomes America's greatest hero is truly an inspiration to me. Growing up as a child and now as a young adult with disabilities, I truly felt empowered after watching this movie. It may be harder for me to do things that usually take others a second to do, but when I finish what I have started, the results and the feelings that come over me make me feel on top of the world. I firmly believe that this movie should be shown to all children and young adults in college. There is a very powerful message in this movie: if you work hard enough for something, you will achieve greatness. After watching this movie, I feel unstoppable.

The Timeless Inspiration of Forrest Gump

In conclusion, there are not enough words to describe all the uplifting and good feelings I have after watching this movie. No wonder Forrest Gump has won six Academy Awards. Seeing a grown disabled adult achieving his life goals is both heart-wrenching and motivating. If I hustle hard enough, I will achieve greatness. Nearly all of us have challenges, and we all have unique strengths and shortcomings. Therefore, Forrest Gump can be an inspiration to us all.

References

Zemeckis, R. (Director). (1994). Forrest Gump [Film]. Paramount Pictures.

Groom, W. (1986). Forrest Gump. Doubleday.