10 Movies & Shows Similar to Forrest Gump (1994)

Description: Rain Man and Forrest Gump both feature protagonists with unique perspectives on the world, whose innocence and honesty challenge those around them. The films explore themes of family, acceptance, and the unexpected ways people can enrich our lives. Both have a road trip element that serves as a journey of discovery and bonding.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman's portrayal of an autistic savant won him an Academy Award. The film was inspired by a real-life savant, Kim Peek. It was the highest-grossing film of

Description: Like Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption is a profound exploration of the human spirit and resilience. Both films follow the life journey of a central character who, despite facing numerous challenges, maintains an unwavering optimism and moral compass. The storytelling in both movies is deeply emotional and spans several decades, offering a reflective look at life's unpredictability and the power of hope.

Fact: The film is based on a Stephen King novella titled 'Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.' It was a box office disappointment initially but gained massive popularity through home video and TV broadcasts. The oak tree under which Andy leaves a note for Red is located in Ohio and became a tourist attraction.

Description: Good Will Hunting, like Forrest Gump, is a story about an underdog with a unique talent who navigates life's challenges with the help of a few key relationships. Both films emphasize the importance of personal growth, love, and friendship, and they feature protagonists who are deeply affected by their pasts but find ways to move forward.

Fact: Written by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, who also starred in the film. The duo won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Robin Williams won an Oscar for his supporting role.

Description: The Green Mile shares with Forrest Gump a narrative that spans several years and focuses on the life of an extraordinary individual whose simple wisdom and kindness impact those around him deeply. Both films blend elements of drama and fantasy, and they explore themes of innocence, suffering, and redemption. The emotional depth and the way they handle life's big questions are strikingly similar.

Fact: The film is based on a serial novel by Stephen King. Michael Clarke Duncan, who played John Coffey, was originally a bodyguard before becoming an actor. Tom Hanks, the star of Forrest Gump, also plays a leading role in this film.

Description: Cast Away, like Forrest Gump, is a survival story that delves into the resilience of the human spirit. Both films feature Tom Hanks in a transformative role, where his character undergoes significant personal growth through isolation and adversity. The emotional depth and the focus on the protagonist's inner journey are key similarities.

Fact: Tom Hanks lost over 50 pounds for his role. The film's production was halted for a year so Hanks could lose weight for the latter part of the story. The volleyball, Wilson, became an iconic symbol of the film.

Description: A Beautiful Mind shares with Forrest Gump a biographical focus on a man who overcomes significant personal challenges to achieve greatness. Both films are inspirational tales that blend personal struggle with historical context, showcasing the protagonist's impact on the world around them. The emotional resonance and the portrayal of the protagonist's inner world are key similarities.

Fact: Based on the life of mathematician John Nash. Russell Crowe spent months preparing for the role, including meeting Nash. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Big Fish mirrors Forrest Gump in its whimsical storytelling and the way it blends reality with tall tales. Both films are about a man's extraordinary life as recounted through stories that blur the line between fact and fiction. They celebrate the beauty of life's journey and the importance of relationships, all while maintaining a magical, almost fairy-tale-like quality.

Fact: Directed by Tim Burton, known for his distinctive gothic fantasy style. The film is based on a novel by Daniel Wallace. Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney play the same character at different ages.

Description: The Terminal and Forrest Gump both star Tom Hanks as a lovable, somewhat naive protagonist who finds himself in extraordinary circumstances. Both films highlight the protagonist's ability to touch the lives of those around him through his kindness and simplicity. The themes of adaptability and making the best of one's situation are prominent in both.

Fact: Inspired by the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in a Paris airport for 18 years. The film was shot in a constructed airport terminal set. Steven Spielberg directed the movie.

Description: This film, like Forrest Gump, is a fantastical journey through the 20th century, seen through the eyes of a unique individual. Both movies explore themes of love, time, and destiny, with a protagonist who lives a life that defies conventional norms. The narrative structure, which reflects on the past from a present-day perspective, is another shared element.

Fact: The film is loosely based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Brad Pitt's aging process was achieved through a combination of makeup and CGI. The movie won three Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects.

Description: This film resonates with Forrest Gump in its portrayal of a man's perseverance through life's hardships. Both protagonists face numerous obstacles but remain determined and hopeful. The emotional journey and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit are central to both stories.

Fact: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner. Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, plays his on-screen son. The title's misspelling of 'happiness' is intentional, reflecting a sign Gardner saw in real life.