Released in 1994, Forrest Gump (Zemeckis, 1994) is a broad depiction of an American man who faces many of life’s challenges in the era between 1951 and 1984. The narrative of the story represents a number of significant periods in American history, and the protagonist seems to be at the focal point of each event. He experiences the popularity of Elvis in the fifties, the assassination of JFK; but more importantly, he participates in the Vietnam War. This is the stage in his life that probably teaches him the most about living, loss, and friendship. Nevertheless, his true love, Jenny, continues to elude him throughout the majority of the story.
There are many historical personalities present in the film. These include JFK, John Lennon, Elvis, and various other U.S political figures during the era in which the film is set. Forrest Gump (Zemeckis, 1994) also contains many conservative undertones which point towards the assumption that it may have been in favor of the Vietnam War.
Context
Forrest Gump (Zemeckis, 1994) was made in 1993 and released in 1994 at a time when America was going through a period of immense self-realization. The film enables the viewer, despite their generation, to take a glimpse into how the world was back then, particularly with regards to the counter-culture of the 1960s. Those who were present during the era depicted in the film can make an assessment of the type of world it used to be, and consider how their beliefs were construed as compared to that of the main characters in the film.
Forrest Gump (Zemeckis, 1994) touches upon many socially sensitive political issues, particularly that of the Vietnam War. The director gives an impression that those who participated in the war were heroes, and it tends to paint a picture of conservatism while downgrading the ‘hippy’ ideologies which were also present in the film. For example, it portrays a character with such beliefs as drug-addicted and emotionally unstable. This being said, while these issues are of great significance to the viewer, they are of little importance to the film as a whole. The main aspects of the film circle around notions of the implications of friendship, as well as the never-ending quest to find the meaning of one’s life.
Use of History
It would almost certainly be impossible for someone to be present at nearly all of the historical events shown in the film, but the director can insert Forrest into various parts of history. However, each event portrayed tends to be fairly accurate in its depictions. For example, Forrest becomes part of the American table tennis team after he recovers from Vietnam, and while a team of table tennis players was the first to be allowed into China after 1949, there were not any military players on that trip.
The viewer can learn a great deal about history by watching this film – especially those who were not present during these times. It is quite amazing how many historical moments are covered in the film, and it could almost be considered a filmic history lesson for anyone who wants to learn about American history.
Personal Assessment
Not only would this film be recommended to just about anyone wanting a glimpse of American culture and history, but it also provides an entertaining and appealing view of how the world used to be. Even though it is laden with all of the general aspects which make a Hollywood film seem attractive to watch, it also confronts social issues that are still important today. In conclusion, it is a must-see for anyone who values historical knowledge and wants to be visually amused at the same time.
Reference
Zemeckis, R. 1994, Forrest Gump, released by Paramount Pictures.