Overview
Big is a 1988 American fantasy-comedy-drama film directed by Penny Marshall. The story centers on a child who, after making a wish to be "big," awakens in the body of an adult and must navigate grown-up life while retaining a child's perspective. The lead role was played by Tom Hanks, whose performance is widely cited as key to the film's charm and commercial success.
Plot and themes
At its heart, Big combines lighthearted comedy with thoughtful observations about maturity, responsibility and the appeal of childhood freedom. The narrative follows the protagonist's attempt to reconcile childhood desires with adult responsibilities, exploring themes such as identity, honesty and the compromises of adulthood. Humor arises from situations in which a childlike outlook collides with workplace, romantic and social expectations.
Cast and production
The principal cast includes Tom Hanks as the adult version of the boy, with a younger actor portraying the child when needed. Supporting roles were filled by performers such as Elizabeth Perkins, John Heard and Robert Loggia. The film's direction, performances and production design emphasize both the novelty of an adult trapped in a child's mindset and the textures of late-1980s urban life.
- Notable cast: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, John Heard, Robert Loggia.
Reception and awards
Critics generally praised the film for its warm tone and the central performance. It received recognition from the film industry, including two Academy Award nominations: one for Best Actor (Tom Hanks) and one for Best Original Screenplay. These nominations are recorded in awards histories and archives (Academy Awards, Best Actor category).
Legacy and notable facts
Big is often remembered for blending family-friendly humor with more adult emotional beats, helping to enlarge Tom Hanks's career beyond straight comedy roles. The movie has influenced later works that examine age, wish-fulfillment and identity, and is commonly referenced in discussions about 1980s popular cinema. Its commercial and critical success helped cement the director's and lead actor's reputations in mainstream Hollywood.