Forrest Gump Film

Question

1. What does Charles mean when he says this audience shares a “common experience” with the character of Forrest Gump? Explain.

2. Do you feel that without this “common experience” one’s enjoyment of the film Forrest Gump might be lessened? Explain.

Answer 1

Forest Gump is a complicated character, despite his apparent mental simplicity. He loves, he hurts, he grieves, and he feels loyalty. Consequently, in part because we as an audience see him as simple, these human traits become more obvious than they may in someone who was capable of greater deception or critical thought. This makes him a character that everyone can relate to, as we have all experienced those basic and profound emotions. Without being able to relate to Forest, most people would probably not be as emotionally invested, and therefore would enjoy the movie less.