Forrest Gump and Extraordinary People
We are constantly faced with many different and challenging situations which we can either choose to make the best of or we can let the situation get the best of us. Whether it be race, culture, religion, interests, beliefs, age, gender, or any other possible component to our identity that can cause us to face challenges, there will always be a choice in the path we can take. One path where we are in control and that will take us in the positive direction, and one where we are controlled and will steer us the other way. If we allow these challenging situations and difficult times to take control over us, it does not mean we have lost control of our lives, there will always be a way to regain that control. As long as we realize what is best for us and for those we love, we will always find an effective way to deal with these situations and get around it.
In Forrest Gump, director Robert Zemeckis uses Jenny, Mrs. Gump, and Lieutenant Dan to prove it is possible for people to overcome discrimination and major challenges to become extraordinary people.
In the early stages of her life, Jenny is taken advantage of because of her young age and gender. She is physically and sexually abused by her alcoholic father. Early in life she seems to have dreams and ambitions, such as being a performer. She has compassion and understanding for others and shows these traits in her interaction with Forrest. However, because of her abusive childhood, she makes certain choices that block her from becoming what she ultimately has the potential to be. As she grows older, you can see the change in her character. She becomes more careless and untamed...