Other Views

Fri., July 8, 1994

Here’s what the critics say about “Forrest Gump:” Dan Webster/SpokesmanReview: The film’s imagery is definitely impressive, whether it be a flying feather or Forrest’s repeated encounters with historical figures. (But) where is the deeper level to “Forrest Gump?” Running references, such as political and celebrity assassinations are, as seen by the simpleminded Forrest, never put into a coherent context. And this seems like cheating… “Forrest Gump” is to ‘90s film what the smiley face is to modern metaphysics.

Frank Bruni/Detroit Free Press: Hanks’ puzzled stare and befuddled tone perfectly convey questions that “Forrest Gump” means for all of us to ask. How are we to make sense of the muddle of our lives? And where is it all leading us?

Jack Mathews/Newsday: Everything that happens to Forrest, and to the society around him, shapes his life in some way, just as he affects the people and world around him. When it comes to understanding and accepting the wisdom of that philosophical brain-twister, Forrest Gump may be better equipped than any of us.

William Arnold/Seattle PostIntelligencer: “Forrest Gump” is also a special triumph for director Robert Zemeckis, long dismissed as a Steven Spielberg protege and never given the critical respect he deserves. Zemeckis proves with this movie that no director in Hollywood is more adept at blending drama, quirky comedy and dazzling special effects to make a highly original and thoughtprovoking entertainment.

Kenneth Turan/Los Angeles Times: There is magic in “Forrest Gump,” but almost by definition magic can’t last and it doesn’t here. … a sweet piece of work with a gentle and eccentric sensibility, this Robert Zemeckis-directed film stumbles whenever it attempts what Forrest never did forcing its charm in search of obvious sentimentality and grander points about society.

Rita Kempley/The Washington Post: Zemeckis, an undisputed master of film technology, shows off an equal aptitude for vivid storytelling in bringing Winston Groom’s picaresque novel to screen.

Philip Wuntch/Dallas Morning News: One of the most original movies in years, “Forrest Gump” is blessed with magic…. “Forrest Gump” is that rarity, a film that’s as stirring to remember as it is to see for the first time.

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Other Views

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