The World of Forrest Gump: Exploring Film Locations and American History
Forrest Gump is one of the most iconic cinematic characters of all time. The 1994 movie of the same name chronicled the life of a slow-witted but kind-hearted man navigating through major events in American history. It is one of the most successful films of all time, grossing over $677 million worldwide and winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The movie captured the hearts and imaginations of people all over the world, making them wonder if they could explore Forrest Gump’s world.
The Iconic Home in Greenbow, Alabama
Many fans of the movie have wondered if they can visit Forrest’s iconic home in Greenbow, Alabama. The answer is both yes and no. The house that served as the exterior of Forrest’s home in the movie is located in South Carolina, not Alabama. The home is located at 1107 and 1111 Berkeley Street in Savannah, Georgia, and was used to depict the iconic white house with a wraparound porch that Forrest grew up in. The home has become a popular tourist attraction for fans of the movie, who come to take photos and explore the house used in the film.
The Bench and the Chocolates
While the exterior of the home might be a must-see for many fans, there are plenty of other places in the world of Forrest Gump that are worth exploring. One of the most popular is the location in which Forrest sits on a bench and shares a box of chocolates with strangers. The bench is located in Savannah’s Chippewa Square, which has become a destination for movie tourists. The bench itself doesn’t exist anymore, but a plaque marks the spot where it used to be, and visitors can sit in replica benches and reenact the scene.
The Bubba Gump Shrimp Company Restaurant
Another popular location in the world of Forrest Gump is the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurant in Monterey, California. The restaurant, named after Forrest’s friend Bubba and the shrimp business they dream about starting together, is a favorite among movie fans. The restaurant has become a chain, with several locations worldwide, but the original location in Monterey is a must-visit for Forrest Gump enthusiasts.
Historical Locations
Forrest’s world is also intertwined with real American history. One of the most significant events depicted in the film is the Vietnam War, in which Forrest serves as a soldier. Fans of the movie can visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., to pay their respects to the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in the war. They can also visit the National Mall, where Forrest famously meets President Nixon and inadvertently helps uncover the Watergate scandal.
Another important location in the movie is the Bonnie Blue Flag, a historic flag that Forrest carries with him throughout the film. Visitors can see the flag at the Confederate Museum in Greenville, South Carolina. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts related to the Confederate States of America, including flags, weapons, and uniforms. Fans of the movie and Civil War history buffs will appreciate the connection between Forrest’s world and real American history.
The University of Alabama
Finally, fans of the movie can also visit the University of Alabama, where Forrest plays football for the Crimson Tide. The university has played a significant role in American football history and is worth visiting, even if you’re not a fan of the movie. Fans of Forrest Gump can take a guided tour of the campus and explore the locations where the movie was filmed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while fans may not be able to visit the actual home of Forrest Gump in Greenbow, Alabama, they can explore many other locations in his world. From the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurant to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, there are plenty of places to visit, both real and fictional. The movie captured the hearts and imaginations of people all over the world, making them wonder if they could explore Forrest Gump’s world. The answer is yes, and it’s a fascinating journey worth taking.