Final answer:
The statement about Tom Hanks being a popular star in contemporary American cinema is true. His varied and successful career is comparable to that of other notable actors like Will Smith and Morgan Freeman.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that Tom Hanks has become one of the most popular stars in contemporary American cinema is true. Tom Hanks is indeed one of the leading figures in the industry, with an impressive list of successful films that span across various genres and decades, similarly to the accomplishments of actors like Will Smith and Morgan Freeman. Hanks's performances in movies such as 'Forrest Gump', 'Cast Away', and 'Saving Private Ryan' have cemented his status as a talented and versatile actor adored by audiences worldwide.