Marking 30 years since ‘Forrest Gump’ debut

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – It’s been 30 years since the iconic Forrest Gump premiered in movie theatres on July 6, 1994.

Robert Zemeckis’ inspiring comedy-drama starring Tom Hanks as the gentle and good-hearted Gump, simply and dutifully wandering his way through tumultuous periods of American history, won the hearts of millions and cemented its place in movie history, bringing Savannah along its journey.

The hallmark bus stop scene, which sets the framework for the story, was filmed at Chippewa Square. Today, the bench sits on display in the Savannah History Museum, and Chippewa Square continues to see tourists by the thousands each year who flock to the site.

WSAV’s Ben Senger spoke with Coastal Heritage Society’s Director of Interpretation, Emily Beck, about the treasured relic:

“People will come and pay admission just to see this bench. I think that’s wonderful, though, because that brings people here to see so much of Savannah’s history.”

The bench, made out of fiberglass, is one of several props designed for the scene. It was donated to the city of Savannah after production.

The film is one of many that helped put Savannah on the film map at that time, along with Glory and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

The film won six Academy Awards in 1995, including Best Picture, Best Director for Zemeckis and Best Actor for Hanks.

Today, the film is remembered as a modern classic, ranking #76 on the American Film Institute’s 100 Years…100 Movies list. Two of the movie’s most memorable lines, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get” and “Run, Forrest, run!” have become instantly recognizable in American jargon.

For those who wish to rekindle their love of Forrest Gump , or experience the film for the first time, Savannah’s historic Lucas Theatre will host a screening on July 25 as part of their Summer Soundtrack series.