Forrest Gump
A man with a low IQ has accomplished great things in his life and been present during significant historic events—in each case, far exceeding what anyone imagined he could do. But despite all he has achieved, his one true love eludes him.
June 23, 1994 · Directed by Robert Zemeckis
What's been said
Viewers and critics have long been split on Forrest Gump, with mass audiences embracing it warmly while a vocal critical contingent calls it overrated. The most universally praised element is Tom Hanks' lead performance, described across reviews as a triumph of dignity and warmth, alongside the groundbreaking special effects that digitally wove Forrest into real historical events. The most persistent criticism is that the film oversimplifies complex history, with some critics arguing it has the trappings of satire without a coherent attitude, and skirts difficult political realities too safely. A notable detail: the film beat out Pulp Fiction and The Shawshank Redemption for the Best Picture Oscar, a choice that continues to fuel debate decades later.
Will you actually like it?
Answer a few quick questions and we'll predict how much you'll like this movie, not whether critics did. Each one targets something this film specifically leans into, where viewers tend to split. We think these are the questions that will best help predict how well it will align with you.
Where to watch
Trailer
