1. Scope and Focus:
* Book: The book is much broader in scope, covering Forrest's life from childhood to adulthood in more detail. It explores his experiences in Vietnam, his romantic relationships, and his eventual success in the shrimping industry.
* Movie: The movie focuses more on the key events and turning points in Forrest's life, selecting specific moments that highlight his journey and the impact of his innocence and kindness on the world around him.
2. Character Development:
* Book: Forrest is portrayed as a more naive and simple character in the book. His intelligence and emotional complexity are less developed.
* Movie: Tom Hanks' portrayal of Forrest in the movie gives him a greater depth of character, showcasing his intelligence, wit, and sensitivity. He's portrayed as someone with a profound understanding of the world, even if he doesn't always express it explicitly.
3. Themes:
* Book: The book focuses more on Forrest's struggles and triumphs, highlighting his resilience and the challenges of living with a disability.
* Movie: While still highlighting Forrest's resilience, the movie also emphasizes the theme of "life is like a box of chocolates." It uses Forrest's innocence and empathy to explore the unexpected twists and turns of life and the importance of embracing the unknown.
4. Historical Context:
* Book: The book portrays the historical events of the 20th century more directly, with Forrest often witnessing or even participating in these events.
* Movie: The movie uses historical events as a backdrop for Forrest's journey, often showing him interacting with iconic figures of the time. However, it emphasizes the impact these events have on Forrest's life and how his simple perspective offers a unique view of history.
5. Ending:
* Book: The book's ending is more ambiguous, with Forrest reflecting on his life and the challenges he has faced.
* Movie: The movie ends on a more uplifting and hopeful note, with Forrest acknowledging his personal growth and the positive impact he has had on the world.
In conclusion, the movie simplifies the story of Forrest Gump while adding emotional depth and cinematic appeal. While the book offers a more detailed and nuanced portrayal of Forrest's life, the movie provides a more accessible and impactful experience that resonates with audiences worldwide.