Tom Hanks and Robin Wright Reunite in Robert Zemeckis’ Experimental Film ‘Here’

Tom Hanks and Robin Wright have reunited on the big screen for the first time in three decades in the film ‘Here’, directed by Robert Zemeckis. The movie, which premiered at AFI Fest in Los Angeles on October 25, marks their first collaboration since the iconic 1994 film ‘Forrest Gump‘.

‘Here’ is a sweeping drama inspired by Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, telling the stories of various families across generations, all set within the same house. The film spans ages from the era of dinosaurs to the present day, using a single-camera angle that continuously jumps back and forth among timelines. This unique approach is primarily set around a living room of Hanks and Wright’s characters, unfolding in cinematic snapshots mostly throughout the 20th century.

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Paul Bettany, Kelly Reilly, and Michelle Dockery. The screenplay is a collaborative effort between Zemeckis and Eric Roth, who previously won Oscars alongside Hanks and Zemeckis for ‘Forrest Gump’.

One of the standout aspects of ‘Here’ is its use of groundbreaking technology to de-age the actors. Tom Hanks explained that the process involved taking 8 million images of himself and Robin Wright from the web, using deep-fake technology to create younger versions of themselves. This technology allowed the actors to see their de-aged performances in real-time during filming.

Despite the innovative approach, initial reviews from critics have been mixed. Many have praised the film’s ambition but criticized its execution, feeling that the focus on technology overshadowed the storytelling and character development. Critics from outlets like ‘The Daily Beast’, ‘IndieWire’, and ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ have expressed disappointment, noting that the film lacks the emotional impact and heart that made ‘Forrest Gump’ so beloved.

The film is set to release on November 15, 2024, distributed by TriStar Pictures and produced by Miramax and ImageMovers.