Masterful

Rating: 10/10 (12 July 2010)

Tom Hanks delivers a nuanced and cunning performance that cements his status as one of the most talented actors of his generation in this touching and beautifully rendered masterpiece.
On the surface, it is the story of a mental midget who is haphazardly thrust into pivotal and prolific moments, in history and in the lives of those he loves. But Mr. Hanks imbues in his title character a tugging and ironic mystery: Is he really the small-minded dolt everyone assumes him to be, or is there something much more to him â€“ something we all wish we had?
An impeccable supporting cast helps lift Mr. Hanks up. We see Robin Wright as Jenny, the true and only romantic love of Forrest's life, battle demons on the road to her own personal and transformational peace. Gary Sinise is nothing short of marvelous as the semi-crazed Lieutenant Dan, and Sally Field hits the mark as Forrest's doting and insightful mother.
Wonderfully paced and chock-full of memorable quotes, the film inspires viewers to ponder questions so large as destiny and the true nature of the just man.
Lovely cinematography and an outstanding, apt soundtrack also help to make this one of its decade's finest films.