Society and Movies

Media is everywhere in this current generation. From the movie theaters at the mall to the television in our houses, we cannot escape from it. We use it as entertainment, to gather information and socialization. But how much of an impact does it affect our way of life? Two widely different movies, Forest Gump and Juno are popular to the public during there own release periods. Both of which, involves scenarios that are out of the social norms.

Forest Gump is film chronicling the life of a mentally challenged man present during three decades of American history. On the surface lies an inspirational and heartwarming story, but deep within expands on the progression of American history and politics. Throughout the film, Forest participates in many major events of the 60s, 70s, and 80s, yet none of which is taken with his own power of will.

The understanding of Forest’s background is an important and characterizing element in the film. Crippled by a terrible spine condition and low IQ, Forest struggles through his childhood at Greenbow, Alabama. Due to his mental and physical disabilities, Forest becomes a victim of discrimination. Everywhere he goes, he is judged and picked on by the locals from young to old. In fact, he was planned on being placed into a special school based on his academic scores. But his mother wanted no part in her son learning in a different environment then the rest. She put herself on the line and traded sexual favors with the principle for school enrollment. The parental role of Forest’s mother proves to be very influential and dedicated. This caring role will later show on Forest as he grows up and begins his journey. However, Forest still finds himself tormented and isolated by neighborhood children and townspeople who seem incapable of treating him with anything but reproach and disdain.

Forest was active in many important events, including protests against desegregation, the Vietnam War, the Ping Pong Diplomacy period, anti-war...