I think we can all agree that the movie Forrest Gump is an American classic. So what's so special about Forrest Gump? A good place to start is by looking at Forrest Gump, the character, rather than the film as a whole. Simply saying “it's simple” is an understatement. Forrest is a man of strong morals, steadfast loyalty, and an extraordinary heart. What is intriguing about Forrest is how free he is from the prejudices and judgment of those close to him. Accept Jenny for who she is, regardless of the situation she finds herself in. He simply sees beyond. Likewise, his admiration and respect for Lieutenant Dan does not change after he becomes disabled. The film shows many issues related to race, but with Forrest and his friend Bubba this is not a major factor. So much so that when Lieutenant Dan asks them, "Are you twins?" -- Forrest's "We are not related, sir" is said so matter-of-factly. For Forrest it is obvious that they are not brothers because they are not related, not because one is black and the other white. Diversity is one of the main themes throughout the film. Not just race, but also disability, both mental and physical. Lieutenant Dan is often angry at Forrest, but not because of his IQ. One of the greatest moments in the film is when Dan and Forrest bring two girls into their room and Lieutenant Dan kicks the girls out when they start calling Forrest "stupid." This is important because, we understand, the argument the Lieutenant has with his friend is not due to his simplicity or other character flaws. It was because Dan felt cheated of his destiny to die in battle when Forrest saved him. Thus, leaving him paralyzed. I've heard opinions about the movie where people talked about how Forrest gets opportunities in life through sheer luck. This is... middle of paper... we keep looking at them. You can't write these moments, you can't even really direct them, and you can't intentionally portray them. They simply have to approach the actor and he or she will act accordingly. Let's go back to my original question: why is Forrest Gump such a special film? The film takes audiences through some of the most historic moments in American and world history, and touches on issues such as race, war, sexual abuse, and a wide variety of prejudices. If the film teaches us anything, perhaps it is that history is not a static thing. From the film we learn that the story is not as simple as we think. It depends on whose eyes we see it. And watching Forrest Gump's incredible journey reminds us that we are here in the world and we can make a difference. And maybe courage, kindness, simplicity and love are the most important things, after all.