30 Years of Forrest Gump: Behind-the-Scenes Secrets and Surprising Facts
It’s hard to believe, but it’s been 30 years since moviegoers first watched Forrest Gump sit down on that bus stop bench and utter the iconic line: “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.” As we celebrate this cinematic milestone, let’s delve into some behind-the-scenes secrets and surprising facts about the making of this beloved film.
Underpaid Author
Forrest Gump was based on the 1986 novel by Winston Groom. Despite the film’s massive success, earning over $677 million worldwide and winning six Academy Awards, Groom received a relatively modest payment for the rights to his book. The author was paid $350,000 for the film rights and a share of the net profits, but due to Hollywood accounting practices, the film was deemed “not profitable” on paper. As a result, Groom did not see much of the financial windfall he might have expected from such a blockbuster hit.
Tom Hanks’ No-Salary Deal
Tom Hanks, who delivered an unforgettable performance as Forrest Gump, took an unconventional approach to his compensation. Rather than a traditional salary, Hanks opted for a percentage of the film’s gross earnings. This decision paid off immensely, as the film’s success earned him around $40 million. Hanks’ faith in the project and willingness to take a risk on its financial performance speaks volumes about his commitment to the role and the film’s potential.
Iconic Bench Scene
One of the film’s most iconic scenes is Forrest Gump sitting on a bench at a bus stop in Savannah, Georgia, recounting his life story to strangers. The bench has since become a tourist attraction, with fans flocking to Chippewa Square to relive the memorable moments. Interestingly, the bench used in the film was a prop, and it now resides in the Savannah History Museum for preservation and display.
Special Effects Innovations
Forrest Gump was a pioneer in using special effects to insert Tom Hanks’ character into historical footage. Groundbreaking visual effects allowed Forrest to “meet” historical figures like John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, and John Lennon. These innovative techniques were state-of-the-art at the time and contributed to the film’s Best Visual Effects Oscar win.
Soundtrack Success
The film’s soundtrack, featuring a collection of classic rock and pop songs, played a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere. Songs from artists like Elvis Presley, The Doors, and Fleetwood Mac helped to capture the spirit of the different eras depicted in the film. The soundtrack album became a best-seller, further cementing the film’s cultural impact.
Sequel That Never Happened
Winston Groom wrote a sequel to his novel, titled Gump & Co., which was published in 1995. Despite the success of the first film, plans for a sequel never materialized. Screenwriter Eric Roth did write a draft, but the project was ultimately shelved. Factors such as the passage of time and changing industry dynamics contributed to the decision not to pursue a follow-up.
Cultural Impact
Forrest Gump has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The film’s memorable quotes, such as “Run, Forrest, run!” and “Stupid is as stupid does,” have become part of everyday vernacular. The character of Forrest Gump, with his unwavering kindness and simplistic wisdom, continues to resonate with audiences, making the film a timeless classic.
Conclusion
As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Forrest Gump, it’s clear that the film’s charm and impact have not diminished. From underpaid authors to unconventional salary deals, the behind-the-scenes stories add depth to our appreciation of this cinematic gem. Forrest Gump’s legacy endures, reminding us all that “life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.”