Passionate and magical, Forrest Gump is a tonic for the weary of spirit. For those who feel that being set adrift in a season of action movies is like wandering into a desert, the oasis lies ahead. Back when Tom Hanks' movie career was relatively new, the actor made a film called Big , which told the story of a young boy forced to grow up fast as a result of an ill-advised wish made at a carnival. In some ways, Forrest Gump represents a return to the themes of that earlier movie. In this case, the main character remains a child in heart and spirit, even as his body grows to maturity.
Hanks is called upon yet again to play the innocent.
In fact, the naivete that comes through a limited understanding of the world around him gives Forrest a uniquely positive perspective of life. During the next thirty years, Forrest becomes a star football player, a war hero, a successful businessman, and something of a pop icon. She is never far from his thoughts, no matter what he's doing or where he is. Though the movie does not seek to reduce every member of the audience to tears, it has moments whose power comes from their simplicity. Equally as important is laughter, and Forrest Gump has moments of humor strewn throughout.