Forrest Gump is a fictional character from the 1994 film of the same name, directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on the novel by Winston Groom. Portrayed by Tom Hanks, Forrest is an intellectually challenged man who unwittingly influences several historical events in the United States during the 20th century while pursuing his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. The film explores themes of love, resilience, and the randomness of life, and it has become a cultural touchstone in American cinema.