Discover the Surprising Film That Outshined Tom Hanks’ Expectations
Tom Hanks is a renowned figure in Hollywood, known for his versatility and charm. Starting his career in the 1980s, he quickly established himself as a leading actor. What many don’t realize is the surprising impact of his films, particularly one that outshined his own expectations.
Discover the Surprising Film That Outshined Tom Hanks’ Expectations
Hanks made his film debut in the 1980 slasher movie, He Knows You’re Alone. His breakthrough came in 1984 with Splash, a romantic comedy that caught the public’s eye. This was followed by the beloved classic Big, solidifying his status in the industry.
Successful Decade in the 1990s
The 1990s marked a high point for Hanks. He starred in various hit films, including:
- Sleepless in Seattle
- Toy Story
- Saving Private Ryan
Hanks won two Academy Awards during this period. The first was for Philadelphia in 1993, followed by Forrest Gump in 1994. The latter grossed an impressive $678 million against a budget of $55 million.
Forrest Gump: A Phenomenon
Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a unique blend of comedy and drama. Hanks portrays a mentally disabled man who shares significant life stories at a bus stop. Criticized for its patriotic narrative, the film was a massive success and was the highest-grossing movie of its release year.
In an interview with The Virginian Pilot in 1996, Hanks described the film as a “phenomenon,” emphasizing its unexpected success. Hanks mentioned, “the movie became bigger than any of us ever thought.”
Shifting Focus After a Trophy Year
Following this monumental success, Hanks sought a change. He opted to star in and direct That Thing You Do!, reflecting on his year of accolades. He stated, “It really isn’t very interesting talking about yourself. You learn more when you get your ass kicked than when you’re doing well.”
That Thing You Do! achieved a respectable $34.6 million at the box office and received a ‘Best Original Song’ nomination at the Academy Awards. However, Hanks was relieved it did not reach the same level of fame as Forrest Gump.
Enduring Legacy
While Hanks has had numerous successful films, replicating the unique impact of Forrest Gump is a challenge. Many of his other films have surpassed it financially, but the cultural significance of Forrest Gump remains unmatched. Its legacy endures, continuing to inspire a devoted following.
