Forrest Gump (1994)
Life is like a box of chocolates.
Presentation:
Except you do know what you’re gonna get when this is one of the most quotable films of all time. I’d even go as far as to say it’s the most iconic movie line of all time as it’s well known and understood throughout all cultures even if they don’t know where it originates from. This is a film millennials and Gen Y have watched as children and growing up we can still feel its impact today. Although the film covers the Vietnam War and many different arcs through the decades, the romance stills ends up feeling relatable despite its classic presentation. It’s endearing, heartbreaking, exciting, though shows restraint, slowing down when it needs to. Tom Hanks isn’t just a character in this movie, he embodies the American soul. That makes this more than just a film to be reviewed as good or bad, it has become a universal reference in storytelling.
Story:
Watching this film many years ago, it was impossible to not feel devastated by Jenny's decisions. But just like life, we learn to accept it even if it hurts, and in some ways that makes this the most powerful life lesson from a movie you can have.
Conclusion:
There were some fantastic dramas in the 1990s. Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile are both contenders for the greatest mainstream drama, but there were just too many good films during this time. But Forrest Gump takes the crown for having the most timeless story which embodies not only the feelings of men and women, but also the heart of America. I can’t imagine anyone that hasn’t watched this film yet, and if you consider yourself a cinephile it should be a requirement. Capturing the essence of the American spirit, I believe this film has a certain connection with the audience that is somewhat lost from modern filmmaking. Unpretentious, charming and immediately disarming, it’s impossible not to enjoy this drama of the decade.
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