Best Tom Hanks Movies – A Diary of Cinematic Excellence
Dear Diary,
So, in the quiet hours of the evening, I’ve decided to jot down my personal list of the best Tom Hanks movies, the ones that have touched my heart and sparked my imagination.
Because, there’s something undeniably heartwarming about settling down with a bowl of popcorn and diving into the cinematic world of Tom Hanks. As I watched “Forrest Gump” for what must be the hundredth time tonight, I couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing range of characters Tom has brought to life over the years.
My Personal Favourite and Best Tom Hanks Movies
Forrest Gump
This one had to be the first on the list on best Tom Hanks movies. Where else to start but with the film with Hanks delivering the iconic line, “Life is like a box of chocolates”?
Playing the endearingly naive Forrest, Hanks gave us a character whose journey through pivotal moments in American history is both profound and uplifting. His Academy Award-winning performance is as sweet as it is poignant.
Cast Away
Isolation and survival took on a new meaning as I watched Hanks transform into Chuck Noland, a man stranded on a deserted island. I thought it was just another survival story, but Tom Hanks’ acting becomes intense as the story unfolds. It’s a tour-de-force performance that showcases Hanks’ ability to captivate audiences with minimal dialogue, commanding the screen with just his physicality and raw emotion.
A Man Called Otto
In this touching story, Hanks plays Otto, a grumpy widower whose heart eventually opens to life’s possibilities through unlikely friendships. This is the first film where I have seen Hanks grumpier than ever!
It’s a newer role, but Hanks’s performance is as endearing and nuanced as ever, reminding us of the power of connection. If you are going to watch this film, have a box of tissues beside you. You are definitely going to need it; TRUST ME!
News of the World
This movie did not have great reviews on IMDB, but it was Hank’s film, and I had to watch it. And believe me, I loved me. I might be partial, but I genuinely loved the film. Watching Hanks, as a Civil War veteran, take a young girl across treacherous terrain to her rightful home was both intense and heartwarming.
His embodiment of a man driven by honor and haunted by the past added depth to an already gripping storyline. Every frame with both the child and Hanks in it is just endearing like never before.
The Circle
Imagine Hanks and Emma Watson in one film. What a power-packed film, isn’t it? That’s exactly what I felt. For the first time, I have seen Hanks in a negative light!
But believe me, this was an intriguing departure from Hanks’s more heroic roles, diving into the complexities of privacy in the digital age. His portrayal of the charismatic tech giant leader provided a chilling look at the potential dark sides of technology.
The Da Vinci Code
There are so many controversies around this film, but Hanks’s portrayal of Robert Langdon hooked me, solving historical riddles and conspiracies. His intellectual vigor and subtle suspense kept me on the edge of my seat throughout this thrilling adaptation. This film and the entire series – Angels and Demons and Inferno have all my attention.
The way Tom Hanks has portrayed Langdon, I am sure no one could do it! It looks so realistic as he solves the mystery.
Captain Phillips
I was never aware of the challenges faced by marine engineers. But this movie proved to be an eye-opener. The intense portrayal of the real-life hijacking of the Maersk Alabama was made all the more palpable by Hanks’s performance.
His raw, emotional depth during the infamous rescue scene is unforgettable. Not just this, but even the last scene after the rescue will surely give you goosebumps.
The Terminal
What happens when you are trapped in an airport and have nowhere to go? You will be left confused, right? On top of it, your country is at war, and you can’t go back, thus worsening the situation.
However, Hanks’s role as Viktor Navorski, trapped in an airport due to a geopolitical crisis, was a blend of comedy and drama. Every moment showcased in the film is a breeze of fresh air. The film beautifully showcased his remarkable ability to elicit empathy for his characters.
Catch Me If You Can
Imagine two amazing stalwarts in one frame. Yes, “Catch Me If You Can” is a one-of-a-kind film where the characters do not overshadow each other but complement each other.
The cat-and-mouse game between Hanks’s character, FBI Agent Hanratty, and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Frank Abagnale was a delight. The balance of wit and determination Hanks brought to the role was a perfect counterbalance to DiCaprio’s charming deceiver.
On a parting note…
As I pen down these thoughts in my diary, I’m moved by how Tom Hanks brings every character to life with such authenticity and heart. He’s not just portraying roles; he’s lending a piece of himself to each story, creating a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain. His films, ranging from stories of survival and hope to tales of wonder and adventure, are the kind that stays with you long after the credits roll.
