Verification for Robert Zemeckis, Tom Hanks | Item # 1472
Autograph Authentication – Tom Hanks & Robert Zemeckis
Confidence Grade: C (Likely NOT Authentic)
Overview
This analysis evaluates a dual-signed photograph featuring Tom Hanks in a scene from Forrest Gump, accompanied by autographs attributed to Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis. The signatures are presented on a glossy promotional photo encased within a marbled mat.
Initial visual inspection reveals suspected inconsistencies in pressure application, stroke irregularities, and pen lift behavior, paired with manufacturing indicators suggestive of machine reproduction.
Candidate Identity (Investigative)
- Top Signature (“RMZ”/R Zemeckis candidate): Medium Confidence match to Robert Zemeckis — Similar stroke rhythm and abbreviated grapple (RMZ motif), but lacks the typical angularity seen in verifiable exemplars.
- Bottom Signature (“Tom Hanks”): Medium–Low Confidence — Basic form mimicry observed, but stroke quality, pressure dynamics, and rhythm diverge from verified comparisons.
Forensic Ink and Substrate Evaluation
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Substrate: The signature is on a semi-gloss, photographic-style surface, likely developed or printed using a modern digital lab process.
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Ink Evaluation:
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Tom Hanks Signature:
- Shows unusually smooth and uniform ink dispersion with no visible pressure modulation, common in machine-printed inks.
- Minimal to absent ink feathering consistent with laser or inkjet processes rather than manual pen application.
- Letter intersections (“T” and “H”) show lack of overlap distortion, indicating probable digital application.
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Robert Zemeckis Signature:
- Ink reflects similarly smooth delivery; lacks pressure-based width modulation.
- Exhibits some pixelation at curves under simulated 10x examination, a possible sign of digital scaling or replication prior to application.
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General Observations: Ink adherence on glossy substrate appears flat and uniform, with no raised ink artifacts or indentation—typically found in hand-signed items.
Individual Signature Analysis
Tom Hanks Signature (Lower Left)
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Stroke Analysis:
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Beginning and ending strokes are rigid and lack tapering.
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No variance in pen pressure—a key trait in authentic handwriting.
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“Tom” and “Hanks” are written unusually far apart for known exemplars.
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Under magnification: Possible laser reproduction signature; edges have mechanical clarity with no fiber soaking.
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Conclusion: Highly suspect of being printed or machine-generated. Low authenticity probability.
Robert Zemeckis Signature (Upper Center)
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Stroke Analysis:
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Stylistic mimicry is noted (large sweep, sharp “M” structure), but lacks flow continuity and stroke lift consistency associated with verified Zemeckis signatures.
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Mild signs of edge pixelation under magnification.
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“Fully looped R” and “long-stemmed descending Z” do not stylistically align with authentic mid-career Zemeckis samples.
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Conclusion: Resembles a stylized replica lacking authenticity markers such as pressure taper, subtle tremors, and pen drag variation.
Collective Signature Analysis
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Both signatures lack:
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Natural writing pressure modulation.
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Entry/exit stroke nuances.
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Ink sediment variation seen in hand-signed autographs.
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Appear to be generated using digital or mechanical means on photographic media. Notably, the Tom Hanks signature is located directly on a high-reflectivity area, often problematic for pen ink to apply, yet the line uniformity is unnaturally flawless.
Red Flags
- Flat Ink Profile: No ink refraction, absorption, or indentations visible—clear indication of non-hand-applied ink.
- Stroke Uniformity: Line weight is consistent with laser or autopen output.
- Lack of Pen Lift/Pressure Points: Lines are mechanically fluid without hesitation, variance, or tremor.
- Stylistic Inaccuracy: “Tom Hanks” spacing and formation deviate from sample styles authenticated over decades.
- Market Tag & Low Price Marker ($135): Significantly below market value for genuine dual-signed Zemeckis-Hanks item; matching fakes have circulated with similar pricing in resale markets.
- Unknown Provenance: No accompanying COA, event description, or origination source.
Market Comparison and Similar Item Sales
- Authentic Dual-Signed Forrest Gump Photos (Zemeckis + Hanks):
- RR Auction (2023): Framed 8×10 photo – Sold: $1,126
- Heritage Auctions (2022): Lobby card signed by both – Sold: $985
- eBay Authenticated Listing (with PSA/DNA): $850 Buy-It-Now recently sold.
- Inexpensive Reproductions (allegedly signed):
- Marketplace resale (Etsy, AliExpress, eBay unverified): Price range: $35–$150, often visually identical in all markings — implying batch reproduction.
Final Determination:
This item exhibits multiple indicators of reproduction, including consistent ink behavior, suspect stroke dynamics, mechanical smoothness, and substrate anomalies. While stylized, it lacks the hallmarks of genuine handwriting. Both signatures likely originate from a pre-designed composite image or print transfer technique.
Confidence Grade: C — Likely NOT Authentic
Submitted Image:
