Forrest Gump: Book vs. Film – The Real Winner Might Surprise You!
- Alis Page
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
We all know Forrest Gump as the heart warming, quotable film starring Tom Hanks, but did you know it was originally a book? While the film won Oscars and became a cultural phenomenon, the novel by Winston Groom has its own unique charm. But which version, the book vs the film is really better? I’ve read the book, watched the film (more than once!), and I’m here to break it all down for you!
Book Synopsis
Title Forrest Gump
Author: Winston Groom
Publisher: Black Swan
Published: 1986
Pages: 240
My thoughts: Winston Groom introduces us to Forrest, a man with a low IQ but a big heart, who stumbles his way through extraordinary moments in history. From playing college football to becoming an astronaut and even a professional wrestler, Forrest’s journey is even wilder than the movie suggests!
Groom’s writing is sharp, witty, and filled with satire. The book has a much darker and more comedic tone, making Forrest’s adventures feel more outlandish. However, I think it also allows us the reader to connect with him in a more raw and unfiltered way. The novel’s version of Forrest is rougher around the edges—he curses, he’s blunt, and his story feels more like a rollercoaster of misadventures than the sentimental tale Hollywood gave us.
Film Synopsis
Director: Robert Zemecksis
Date: 1994
The 1994 film adaptation of Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks, took the core elements of the book but softened the edges. The movie follows Forrest’s journey through historical events, from meeting Elvis to inspiring John Lennon’s Imagine lyrics and unintentionally influencing American pop culture.
The film leans heavily into sentimentality, painting Forrest as an innocent, loveable hero rather than the more complex character in the book. While it’s visually stunning and undeniably moving (who didn’t cry at the "Run, Forrest, run!" scene?), it removes some of the novel’s sharper satire and replaces it with heart warming nostalgia.
Book vs. Film: Why the Book Wins
While the film is a masterpiece in its own right, the book wins for me because it presents a more layered and unpredictable version of Forrest. The novel’s humour, grit, and unfiltered look at life make for a richer reading experience. It doesn’t just aim to make you feel good—it makes you think. Plus, it’s always fun to see how much wilder the book’s version of events really is!
If you’ve only seen the movie, I highly recommend picking up the book—it’s a whole different ride! Have you read it? Let’s me know what you thought.
Alis x
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