Welcome once again to the movie retrospective that is Highbrow! Lowbrow? Every two weeks or so, Jesse and Shaun review the top box office earner and Best Picture Academy Award Winner of the same year to see what really lies behind the idea of a "highbrow" movie and a "lowbrow" one. We've got another double hitter with the year 1994 and the film, Forrest Gump, which claimed both titles of Best Picture and Top Box Office Earner.
Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis, stars Tom Hanks as the titular character, Forrest Gump, a "slow" man trying to make his way through life during the 60's, 70's and 80's of America. Tom Hanks does an amazing transformation as Forrest, giving him both a strong believability in his disability but also suggests a real purity of spirit to the character. Sally Fields has a strong stint as his mother, a loving and wise woman that brings humor with her practical and frank attitude towards things. Gary Sinise provides a real intense counterpoint to the mother, some one whose lost faith in the world. The story is quite expansive going through practically all of Forrest's life, but that fits the earthen majesty this film presents. The sweeping landscape shots and the grandiose music create a real epic saga, but it doesn't make you feel laden with it. At times however, the constant acknowledgement of the period Forrest is in, via the songs and the historical references, can be distracting, taking you out of the story. Overall though, this movie is a magical yet simple adventure that can both entertain a movie goer and challenge a critic.
One of the more beloved aspects of Forrest Gump but also one of the most dubious, the historical references made throughout the film brought fond memories to everyone's mind and a little doubt. From Forrest helping create the "Have A Nice Day" smiley and him inspiring John Lennon's Imagine, you can't help but question the coincidence that Forrest just happened on these cultural landmarks. The visits made to the White House and the interaction with the presidents were technically amazing back in 1994, but the special effects are up for debate now. Regardless, the presidents served the moment and brought a comic moment to the film, despite their believability. This movie is probably deeper than we think, only after we had viewed Midnight Cowboy from 1969 did we catch Captain Dan and Forrest doing their own version of Ratso and Joe Buck to "Everybody's Talking At Me". Who knows what other cultural phenomenon was referenced that was forgotten? Though a savvy movie goer may feel these moments manipulative or corny, at the end of the day, they are appreciated because they connect you with the American past.
Since Forrest Gump won both titles for Highbrow and Lowbrow, there is no film to compare it to. But honestly, what film can? This is a grand heartwarming story that most can enjoy on several levels, and if you get a chance, give it another watch. Check out the podcast to hear our full review and keep on listening to Highbrow! Lowbrow?
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