Review of Forrest Gump (1994) by Jenlara83 — 07 Mar 2014

“Forrest Gump” (1994) is an American classic that takes us on a journey through a very unique man’s life who is involved in very important events throughout our history. Every aspect of this movie shows different points on very controversial moments. Everything from how Forrest got his name to interracial integration in schools and even touches base on the disease we now know as HIV or AIDS. Forrest, whose adult actor was played by the award winning actor Tom Hanks, grows up as a special needs child who is befriended by a young girl named Jenny. Jenny was Forrest’s only friend all through high school and they were always side by side until college when Jenny went on to lead a not so glamorous in life of drugs and all that goes along with it, while Forrest took the direction of the military. After the war, Forrest followed a very versatile life of being a Medal of Honor holder, a national ping pong ball champion, a billionaire, a shrimp boat caption, an infamous jogger, and eventually a widowed father to his long lost son from none other than his long time friend and love, Jenny.

The movie Forrest Gump can be a tear jerker for many and ultimately hold very valuable points to apply to your life regardless of your situation. The most commonly known quote from the movie is, “My momma always said, life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.” While many may mock this statement, I do hope they see its truth. Always be ready for whatever is thrown at you, and roll with the punches. You definitely cannot plan every detail in life, but as Forrest displays over and over again to just embrace it. Regardless of his endeavors he was always successful because he gave it his all. He did not make excuses and took pride in his actions.

In my eyes this will always be a “go-to” movie to watch as you can always discover new meaning on scenes that you may have not notice before and really reflect on what America has gone through to get where we are at today. This movie speaks to you a lot about destiny, mainly from the character of Forrest’s mom, Mrs. Gump played by Sally Fields. But, it ultimately reinforced by the reality of each and every character in this movie. Destiny brought all of these characters together and through each event making them into the people they were meant to be.

I would recommend this film to everyone. It will always be my favorite movie and just by watching it, it also allows me to step back and re-evaluate my life and where it is going. It reminds me to be more humble and always appreciate everything I have today, not only possessions, but the people in my life and experiences I have endured.