In a delightful homage to one of cinema's most beloved films, Tom Hanks and his son Chet Hanks have teamed up in a new music video that pays tribute to the iconic "Forrest Gump." Released on March 27, 2025, the music video for the song "You Better Run" by the country music duo Something Out West features Chet Hanks recreating several memorable scenes from the 1994 Oscar-winning film, including the famous park bench scene.
Chet Hanks, who is a member of the band alongside Drew Arthur, takes on the role of Forrest Gump, dressed in the character's signature gray suit and blue gingham shirt. The video opens with Chet sitting on a park bench, a box of chocolates in his lap, just as his father did in the film. As the camera pans, viewers see Chet interacting with various strangers who sit beside him, reminiscent of the original film's storytelling style.
Midway through the video, Tom Hanks makes a surprise appearance, joining his son on the bench. The two share a heartfelt moment, exchanging smiles and hugs, which adds a touching element to the nostalgic tribute. Chet's portrayal of Forrest extends beyond the bench, as he runs in a red jacket, echoing the famous "Run, Forrest, Run" scene, and even reenacts moments with a character resembling Jenny, Forrest's childhood love.
The music video also features the band performing on a boat named Jenny, a nod to the shrimping vessel from the film. Chet and Drew's performance captures the essence of the song, which blends country and rock influences, and showcases their journey as musicians. "You Better Run" is their second single since signing with Big Machine Records earlier this year.
According to Chet Hanks, the band was formed after he and Drew Arthur became roommates in California, embarking on a shared path toward sobriety that fostered their creativity. Chet expressed excitement about their partnership with Big Machine Records, stating, "We’re thrilled to partner with Big Machine and Scott Borchetta. The support they’ve shown for ‘Leaving Hollywood’ and the rest of the music has been incredible." The duo is currently working on their debut project, which is set to be released later this year.
The lyrics of "You Better Run" offer a twist, starting as a love song but revealing itself to be a cautionary tale about a man needing to escape from a dangerous woman. Lines like, "Ain't as sweet as she looks / No, she burns like a shot of whiskey / One look in her eyes by the end of the night / You're history / You better run" highlight the song's urgency and depth.
Rita Wilson, Tom Hanks' wife and Chet's mother, showed her support for the music video by commenting on Chet's Instagram post with a series of fire emojis, signaling her pride in her son's work. Fans have also expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, with comments reflecting their excitement about the father-son duo's nostalgic project.
Tom Hanks has a history of appearing in music videos, having starred in Carly Rae Jepsen's "I Really Like You," which has garnered over 312 million views on YouTube. His appearance in "You Better Run" not only highlights his enduring popularity but also showcases the special bond he shares with Chet.
The music video serves as a reminder of the impact of "Forrest Gump," a film that continues to resonate with audiences over three decades later. With its blend of humor, heart, and nostalgia, the music video for "You Better Run" is sure to delight fans of both the film and the Hanks family.
As Chet Hanks continues to carve his own path in the entertainment industry, he also stars in the Netflix series "Running Point," where he plays a politically incorrect basketball player named Travis Bugg. The series has recently been renewed for a second season, showcasing Chet's versatility as an actor.
In addition to his acting and music endeavors, Chet Hanks has previously explored a hip-hop career under the moniker Chet Haze, demonstrating his multifaceted talent. As he embraces his artistic identity, Chet remains committed to sharing his journey with the world through various mediums.
The music video for "You Better Run" is a celebration of family, creativity, and the enduring legacy of a classic film. It encapsulates the essence of the Hanks family's connection to storytelling, both through music and cinema. As fans eagerly await the release of Something Out West's debut project, this father-son collaboration stands as a heartfelt tribute to the past while paving the way for new artistic endeavors.
