A wonderful triumph on every level

Rating: 10/10 (3 June 2004)

I haven't any idea where to begin with this wonderful, beloved classic. "Forrest Gump" ranks as my favorite film of all time, and for many, many reasons. Everything about this beautiful fable is compelling, engrossing, endearing, and absolutely classic. From its memorable "feather" opening scene, we are instantly acquainted with the simple,remarkable story of a simple,lovable man,wisked away into the eyes of Forrest Gump. We learn about individuality ("Don't ever let anyone tell you you're different"), values ("Stupid is as stupid does"),love ("I'm not a smart man... But I love you"), and so many more honest, appreciative qualities to life, all in the tale of a man who has experienced life for everything it is worth, yet lacking the intellectual capacity to conceive the significance of his life. The story takes us from the childhood days of Forrest on his uncertain first ride to school, where he meets the love of his life, Jenny ("I had never seen anything so beautiful in my life. She was like an angel"), to his first ride of recruitment in the Vietnam war, where he befriends his "best good friend" Bubba, to finally, taking his own son, Forrest, to the busstop for his first day of school. The story has been covered; now for my evaluative assessment. Everything in this film, from the brilliant, sensible direction, to the incredibly touching Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump, in perhaps the best performance in the history of cinema, to the compassionate, understanding score, to the unforgettable screenplay (As I write this review I am constantly tempted to quote a line from the film), to the realistic visual effects (One would believe Forrest Gump had actually existed with fame), to such delightful performances as Lieutenant Dan, played hysterically by Gary Sinise, and etc. etc. etc. I cannot praise this classic, unequaled, monumental film enough; suffice to say, everything here is perfect, this film is excellent on practically every level, and I have not stopped loving "Forrest Gump" since the first time I heard the line, "Life is like a box of chocolates". This film is an absolute treasure which shines more and more every time you watch it. **** out of ****