A true epic

Rating: 8/10 (16 May 2005)

Forrest Gump still ranks among the top fifteen box office hits of all time in America, taking in over $329 million. The movie follows the journey of a slow man who gains glory and fame in a diverse and sometimes turbulent era in history. Forrest often doesn't realize the significant impact he makes on some of the most influential people in America. His true love, Jenny, represents the typical youth during that time, and constantly eludes him. They eventually marry and have a son together, but their family life is cut short when Jenny becomes suddenly ill and dies. Forrest lived a full life, inspiring those around him in many ways. As Forrest said, "I might not be a smart man, but I know what love is." The audience connects with his character, experiencing life through Forrest's eyes. The film won six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director and is rightly considered an epic in American culture.