Is "Forrest Gump" Still Apolitical Today? Was It Ever? (1994 Film) | Book vs Movie

·1 hr 21 min·5 clips

Luke and James debate whether Forrest Gump's silence on Vietnam reveals a deeper, conservative political message.

James Bailey and Luke Elliott open episode 314 by introducing their discussion of Robert Zemeckis' 1994 film Forrest Gump. They express initial hesitation due to disliking Winston Groom's source novel but approach the film with nostalgic memories. James notes his modern sensibilities find the film too conservative, though he still enjoys it as a character-driven story. Luke highlights how the film differentiates itself from the book by making Forrest more likable and focusing on a love story. They delve into the film's apolitical stance, arguing that claiming neutrality is itself a political position that supports the status quo. The hosts reference Tom Hanks' statement that the film is non-political and non-judgmental. They discuss Jenny's character, noting her added backstory of sexual assault and how her death from an implied HIV virus symbolizes the death of liberal America according to academic Jennifer Hyland Wang. The conversation touches on the film's use by conservative movements, including Newt Gingrich's promotion and rankings in conservative movie lists. They explore Robert Zemeckis' career and the film's technical achievements, like inserting Forrest into historical footage. The hosts compare Forrest Gump to other 1994 films like Shawshank Redemption and Pulp Fiction, noting its Oscar wins. They detail the plot, focusing on key moments like Forrest's running scene, the shrimp business, and Lieutenant Dan's arc. James reveals his final opinion shifted from liking to disliking the film due to its conservative messaging. Luke suggests the film works as a broad emotional journey but acknowledges its values may not align with progressive viewers today. They conclude by reflecting on how the film's legacy has changed over time.

As heard by us

A sharp book-to-screen discussion of what Forrest Gump avoids saying as history passes through it.

James Bailey and Luke Elliott return to Forrest Gump with a clear question: does Robert Zemeckis's film actually say anything about the history it moves through?

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Why you'd press play

Press play if you want to revisit Forrest Gump through what the film leaves unsaid.

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