Forrest Gump with Mayor Monroe Nichols

Circle Cinema and Tri-City Collective are partnering for a new series Under the Influence debuting with special guest Mayor Monroe Nichols! Tickets on sale now, $8 Circle members and $12 non-members.

The quarterly series will spotlight films that have shaped and inspired prominent community leaders across Oklahoma. Each event will feature a public screening of a selected film, along with personal reflections from the featured guest about how the movie influenced their life, leadership style, and worldview.

Mayor Nichols has selected Forrest Gump as the film that left a lasting impression on him. Prior to the screening, Mayor Nichols will introduce the film and share personal insights into why Forrest Gump resonated with him and how its themes of perseverance, humility, service, and destiny have influenced his path in public service.

Tri-City Collective, established in 2016, is an organization led by experienced educators, activists, and change-makers who are dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and providing educational and artistic opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings for both young people and adults. Central to their mission is the exploration of our state and nation's history, which forms the foundation of their educational initiatives. These initiatives take various forms, such as radio programs, workshops, art exhibitions, live curated discussions, curriculum development, and published written works. The composition of our Collective is intentionally diverse, mirroring the inclusive world they strive to create. Learn more at TriCityCollective.com.

About the film: 2h22min - Period Drama, Epic - Rated PG-13 - English

Upon its release, Forrest Gump became the second highest-grossing film of 1994 and went on to earn widespread critical acclaim, multiple Academy Awards, and recognition as one of the most beloved American films of the late 20th century. Its enduring popularity continues to introduce new generations to its heartfelt storytelling and memorable performances.

Slow-witted Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) has never thought of himself as disadvantaged, and thanks to his supportive mother (Sally Field), he leads anything but a restricted life. Whether dominating on the gridiron as a college football star, fighting in Vietnam or captaining a shrimp boat, Forrest inspires people with his childlike optimism. But one person Forrest cares about most may be the most difficult to save -- his childhood love, the sweet but troubled Jenny (Robin Wright).