Big – Film Review

After a wish turns 12-year-old Josh Baskin into a 30-year-old man, he heads to New York City and gets a low-level job at MacMillen Toy Company. A chance encounter with the owner of the company leads to a promotion testing new toys. Soon a fellow employee, Susan Lawrence, takes a romantic interest in Josh. However, the pressure of living as an adult begins to overwhelm him, and he longs to return to his simple, former life as a boy.

Big (1988), directed by Penny Marshall, is a classic coming-of-age comedy that has stood the test of time as a beloved film in the hearts of many. Starring Tom Hanks in one of his most iconic roles, the movie delivers a charming and heartwarming tale of a young boy named Josh Baskin who magically transforms into an adult overnight. With its blend of humor, emotion, and thought-provoking themes, Big manages to strike a balance between whimsy and poignant introspection, making it an enduring favorite among audiences.

At the core of Big is Tom Hanks’ exceptional performance as Josh Baskin. Hanks brings an infectious sense of childlike wonder to the character, effortlessly capturing the essence of a young boy trapped in an adult’s body. His portrayal is a masterclass in acting, and it’s no surprise that his role earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. From the awkward body language to the innocent facial expressions, Hanks maintains a seamless and believable transition from a 12-year-old to a grown-up. His charismatic presence carries the film, and his interactions with the world of adults provide some of the most memorable and humorous moments throughout the story.

Penny Marshall’s direction in Big is commendable, as she expertly navigates the delicate balance between fantasy and reality. The film opens with a whimsical encounter at a carnival fortune-telling machine that grants Josh’s wish to be “big.” As he wakes up in an adult body the next day, the movie deftly explores the wish-fulfillment fantasy of every child: to become an adult and enjoy the freedom it seemingly entails. However, what could have easily become a superficial exercise in indulgence takes a deeper turn when the consequences of Josh’s transformation start to unfold.

The script, penned by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg, is the backbone of the film’s success. The story unfolds with a blend of humor and pathos that resonates with viewers of all ages. The screenplay shines in its portrayal of the stark contrasts between childhood and adulthood, subtly pointing out the wisdom and perspective that children possess, often missing in their adult counterparts. The film’s central theme revolves around the importance of retaining one’s childlike innocence, even in the face of societal pressures to conform to adult norms. It encourages viewers to embrace their inner child and recognize that growing up doesn’t mean losing the essence of who they are.

As Josh navigates his new life as an adult, he finds himself working at a toy company, where his youthful outlook on life proves to be a refreshing perspective in the corporate world. The scenes at the toy company are delightful, filled with playful inventiveness and witty humor. This is where Big excels in demonstrating the joys of childhood while juxtaposing them against the seemingly mundane realities of adulthood. The film successfully delivers its message without being overly preachy, striking a perfect balance that appeals to both children and adults.

The supporting cast also contributes significantly to the film’s charm. Elizabeth Perkins portrays Susan, a sophisticated and ambitious colleague at the toy company, who forms an unlikely connection with Josh. Perkins brings depth to her character, allowing the audience to understand her motivations and complexities as she grapples with her feelings for the peculiar adult-adolescent. Robert Loggia is memorable as MacMillan, the kind-hearted and wise CEO of the toy company, who becomes both a mentor and a father figure to Josh. His interactions with Josh provide touching moments of wisdom and emotional growth, serving as a gentle reminder of the importance of cherishing one’s youth.

Despite the film’s many strengths, it does have some minor flaws. The pacing in the middle act occasionally feels sluggish, with some scenes meandering longer than necessary, and a tighter edit could have improved the overall flow. Additionally, the romantic subplot between Susan and Josh is somewhat underdeveloped, and their connection feels more superficial than deeply emotional. However, these minor hiccups do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment and impact of the film.

Big remains a timeless classic for several reasons, but its underlying message about the power of embracing one’s inner child is what truly sets it apart. The film manages to capture the essence of childhood dreams and ambitions while delivering a profound message about the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself. It serves as a reminder to adults to not forget the child they once were, and to children that their dreams and imaginations are worth holding onto, even as they grow older.

The music in Big, composed by Howard Shore, perfectly complements the story with a playful and uplifting score that enhances the film’s emotional beats. The soundtrack is memorable and encapsulates the whimsical journey of the protagonist as he navigates the complexities of adulthood while maintaining his childlike spirit.

Big is an endearing and heartwarming film that continues to captivate audiences with its blend of humor, charm, and timeless life lessons. Tom Hanks’ stellar performance, along with Penny Marshall’s skillful direction, makes this movie a delightful and emotionally resonant experience for viewers of all ages. While it has some minor flaws, the film’s overall impact and enduring message about embracing one’s inner child make it a must-see classic that stands tall in the pantheon of coming-of-age comedies. Whether you’re an adult reminiscing about the past or a child eager to embrace the future, Big is a delightful journey that will leave you with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart.