Film & Philosophy: Life Is a Box of… Choices?

Spotlight film: Forrest GumpDrama · Romance · Comedy

For people who hate small talk and love big questions.

Some parts of life we plan. Others surprise us. And sometimes, someone we meet changes what we thought was possible.

Happy Thanksgiving! This November, join Recess Revival for an evening of unexpected connections and thoughtful conversations inspired by Forrest Gump. Through its stories of love, friendship and life’s unpredictable turns, we’ll explore luck, personal agency and belonging.

How much of our story comes from the choices we make—and the people we meet along the way?

We’ll explore two big questions:

🪶 Do We Choose Our Path—or Find It Along the Way?Some of us make plans; others take life as it comes. How do our starting points shape our approach—and how much control do our choices really give us?

🤝 Who Helps Write Our Story?Our lives are personal, but they’re rarely built alone. How do the people we love, lean on and choose as family shape who we become?

With Thanksgiving approaching, we’ll make room for the families we’re born into, the ones we build and the different ways we find belonging.

Come curious. Leave knowing a few new people—and perhaps questioning something you thought you had figured out.

What you’ll experience

🎬 Selected film clips that give everyone a shared starting point. We’ll introduce the characters and context you need to join the conversation.

💬 Guided small-group conversations, with a group remix so you can meet more people! There’s room to disagree, change your mind or simply listen.

✨ A playful group activity that brings the evening’s questions to life through participation and shared perspectives. (Time Permitting).

Haven’t seen Forrest Gump? You’re in the right place.

No advance viewing needed to make the most of the experience. The clips, context and guided prompts will give you everything you need to participate. Whether it’s your first introduction to the film or a longtime favorite, your perspective belongs in the conversation.

Coming alone? We’ll help you settle in.

You don’t need a film degree, a philosophy background or a perfectly formed opinion. We’ll organize the groups and provide the prompts—you bring your curiosity.

A few things to know

We’ll watch selected clips, rather than the full film. Some spoilers are part of the discussion.

The conversation touches on difficult childhood experiences, loss and complicated relationships. Sharing personal experiences is always optional.

Your ticket includes facilitated conversations, the group activity and materials.

Food and drinks are available for separate purchase.

📅 Thursday, November 19Doors open: 6:00 PMGuided experience: 6:30–8:45 PMStay and socialize: Until 9:30 PM

Take a break from the usual routine. Meet someone new. Ask a bigger question.