Historical Precision Clause
Hanks agreed to star in the film on the condition that historical events were portrayed with utmost accuracy. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in U.S. history, the film delves into the significant events that unfolded during the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. From the Vietnam rally to the captivating ping pong scene, and from the Black Panther Party to the Watergate Scandal, the narrative weaves together a tapestry of real-life occurrences. Furthermore, the film features notable appearances by iconic figures like Elvis and President JFK. This comes as no surprise, given Hanks’ reputation as a history aficionado. It is also worth noting his frequent collaboration with fellow history enthusiast, director Steven Spielberg, on remarkable projects centered around World War II, such as “Saving Private Ryan” and “Band of Brothers”.
Emotionally Challenging Scenes
The movie is truly a heart-wrenching experience, and it’s no surprise that Tom Hanks himself would get emotional while playing the role of Forrest. He openly confessed to shedding tears during the scene where LT Dan, with his titanium legs, introduces Forrest to his wife. And who can blame him? The film takes us on an epic journey, evoking a wide range of human emotions. Even producer Wendy Finerman couldn’t help but acknowledge its profound impact. In an interview, she mentioned, “I don’t want to sound like a bad version of ‘the child within’. But the childlike innocence of Forrest Gump is what we all once had. It’s an emotional journey. You laugh and cry. It does what movies are supposed to do: make you feel alive.”