Forrest Gump

Definition

Forrest Gump is a 1994 film that tells the story of a man with a low IQ who inadvertently influences major historical events in the 20th century United States while pursuing his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. The film explores themes of love, destiny, and the complexity of life, illustrating how a seemingly simple character can have a profound impact on those around him.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Forrest Gump was directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on Winston Groom's 1986 novel of the same name.
2. The film features several iconic historical moments and figures, from the Vietnam War to meeting presidents, blending fiction with real-life events.
3. Tom Hanks portrays Forrest Gump, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance, which showcases innocence and kindness despite adversity.
4. The character of Forrest exhibits an unwavering sense of loyalty, especially towards Jenny, which drives much of the emotional core of the film.
5. Forrest's famous quote, 'Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're gonna get,' encapsulates the unpredictability of life and serves as a central theme throughout the story.

Review Questions

• How does Forrest Gump exemplify characteristics of a classic protagonist throughout his journey?
  • Forrest Gump embodies characteristics of a classic protagonist through his unwavering determination, innocence, and loyalty. Despite facing significant challenges due to his intellectual limitations, he remains focused on his goals, particularly his love for Jenny. His journey takes him through pivotal historical moments, showcasing how he inadvertently influences others while remaining true to himself. This contrast between his simplicity and the complexity of his experiences highlights the essence of his role as a protagonist.
• In what ways do societal norms act as antagonistic forces against Forrest Gump's aspirations and desires?
  • Societal norms serve as antagonistic forces against Forrest Gump by presenting obstacles that challenge his pursuit of happiness and connection with Jenny. As someone with a low IQ, Forrest faces prejudice and misunderstanding from those around him, which reflects broader societal attitudes towards disability. Additionally, societal expectations about success and intelligence create barriers for him that he must navigate throughout the film. These antagonistic elements help to illustrate Forrest's resilience and ability to transcend limitations imposed by society.
• Evaluate the significance of non-linear narrative structure in Forrest Gump and its effect on audience perception of the protagonist's journey.
  • The non-linear narrative structure in Forrest Gump significantly enhances the audience's understanding of the protagonist's journey by intertwining various pivotal moments from different points in time. This storytelling technique allows viewers to see how Forrest's experiences are connected to broader historical events while also emphasizing themes of fate and coincidence. By presenting key moments out of chronological order, it highlights how each event shapes Forrest's character and influences those around him, making his simple yet profound perspective more impactful. This layered storytelling invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of life experiences and how seemingly random events can lead to meaningful outcomes.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story, usually facing challenges and driving the plot forward; in this case, Forrest serves as the protagonist whose journey defines the narrative.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist; while there is no traditional antagonist in Forrest Gump, societal norms and circumstances often act as barriers to his desires.

Narrative Structure: The way in which a story is organized and told; Forrest Gump utilizes a non-linear narrative structure, weaving together various life events to create a cohesive tale.