 FORREST GUMP
Reviewed by: John DickersonCONTRIBUTOR
Using the "foolish things of the world to confound the wise" and having a "child-like" faith are two of the many Biblical themes woven into this remarkable, Oscar-winning story of a simple, unassuming man who somehow finds himself at the center of just about every major historical event from the 1950s to the early '80s. Played by Tom Hanks, Forrest Gump is a man of limited IQ but seemingly unlimited love and devotion, especially for his lifelong sweetheart, Jenny (Robin Wright). Gump's innocence and humility are constantly contrasted with Jenny's destructive search for love and fulfillment in all the wrong places. Special effects used to re-create various period scenes are outstanding, but serve to simply enhance rather than overwhelm the central story of an unusually moral man in the midst of an often immoral, chaotic and hypocritical society. Though not clearly defined, mention is made of "receiving Jesus," with Gump expressing confidence that he was indeed going to heaven in response to his embittered Vietnam commander's railings against the Almighty. Other positive images include Gump's color-blind involvement with an otherwise all-black church (as well as his black best friend from the Army), showing obedience and honor to his loving "mama" (Sally Field) and other authority figures, sacrificial giving, and completion of any task "heartily as unto the Lord" (from non-stop running for his life and then to save others to becoming a world champion in ping pong). Unfortunately, the graphic portrayal of the fallen world around Gump makes this film off limits for children's tender hearts. While not glorified, sin is strongly depicted in the form of profanities (especially taking the Lord's name in vain), premarital sex (partial nudity), violence (namely, the effects of war) and illicit drug use. Although Gump steadfastly resists the temptations of other women and various worldly vices, his intimacy with Jenny prior to marriage is regretfully condoned. For mature Christians, Forrest Gump can serve as a challenging reminder of the blessings and opportunities that flow from simply wanting to do the right thing without seeking gain or personal glory. [ If our reviews have been helpful to you, please prayerfully consider a donation to help pay the expenses for making this service available to you and your family! Donations are tax-deductible. ] Here is what some other Christians think about this film:
I LOVED this movie. It had some "bad" parts but it was unusually clean for a PG-13 movie. I loved the story line and it deals with a lot of issues. Gumps quotes that he makes (ex. Life is like a box of Chocolates) are amazingly true. I loved it!!! I found the movie to be quite interesting but was quite disturbed by the fact that the movie implied that Lt Dan cursed God and the next instant was rewarded with repaired self-esteem, increased cash revenues, and eventually a wife who loved him. It did imply that he cursed God and won which I completely disagreed with. In my opinion, Forest Gump is one of those good heart-warming movies that you watch just because it makes you feel good. I own the video and watch it sometimes just because. It is an entertaining and fun perspective on American history that doesn't tire out. Yuck! I am against the crowd on this one -- I don't think Forrest Gump is realistic, moral, or even very well-crafted! Moral choices are those that result from a consideration of temptation and a rejection of non-virtuous ways. Forrest is just too dumb to recognize "bad" options. Real people who have mental disabilities struggle with temptation and morality just like everyone else. The one time Forrest notices temptation, he gives in to it and has sex with his troubled friend. My hero. I would like to see a REAL film about morality, where a person (of any mental capacity) struggles with the temptations and inspirations of daily life in a thoughtful and human manner. |
