1994
Directed by Robert Zemeckis
This is one of those films that literally everyone is expected to adore. Consequently, I have now seen it quite a few times. I really hope I never have to watch it again, but I have a feeling that's an impossible dream.
Forrest is a slow-witted but kind Southern man, who witnesses, and sometimes participates, the most significant events of the second half of the 20th century. Through all his successes and misadventures, he remains thoroughly devoted to his childhood crush Jenny. Jenny, however, is following her own path (i.e. free love and anti war movements).
So why do most people love this movie? I suppose Forrest is lovable in a Prince Myshkin-esque way and there is no denying that Tom Hanks is a talented actor. I still feel like Forrest is a politician's fantasy about what the typical American should have been during the 60s and 70s: loyal, naive, and kind of stupid. Ultimately, these traits lead Forrest to triumph, garnering fame and fortune. Meanwhile, Jenny, who chose a more offbeat track...well, no spoilers. Suffice to say she doesn't do as well. The whole thing felt like a misguided, patriotic parable. Maybe I am reading into it too much, but the entire film just rubbed me the wrong way.
In any case, I also think it is too long and just plain cheesy at times. I mean, the white feather? Let's take it down a notch. This isn't American Beauty.
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
Bill Murray, John Travolta, and Chevy Chase all turned down the role of Forrest.
The Vietnam scenes were shot in South Carolina.
Oh, and by the way .. Life is NOT like a box of chocolates ...A chocolate box has what all the fillings are printed on the lid or on an insert, so you know exactly what you are going to get.
ReplyDeleteFor goodness sake ...
I was laughing out loud at Ray's rant and him coming back to say oh by the way...Very entertaining, Ray! Anyway, I agree with both of you.
ReplyDeleteHis rant made me laugh too. That's basically how I felt, although I wasn't so colorful about it. Maybe we can take it as he is too slow witted to look for the insert, which can be part of the metaphor? But then, he says it is something his mom said. Never mind, I can't work with this. It's a terrible line.
ReplyDeleteI am the only one who thought the jolly laughs where his mother is forced to endure sexual encounters with the predatory headmaster were a little bit ill-judged?
ReplyDeleteThe entire film was ill judged.
ReplyDelete