Big

Big is a timeless classic that combines elements of comedy, drama, and fantasy, expertly directed by Penny Marshall and superbly performed by a talented cast headed by the charismatic Tom Hanks. This universally loved film was released in 1988 and quickly became an enduring part of American cinematic repertoire, exploring an original concept that revolves around a simple childhood wish that becomes a grown-up reality.

Big is the story of Josh Baskin, wonderfully portrayed by David Moscow as a young boy and Tom Hanks in his adult form. Josh is a 12-year-old kid from New Jersey who, like most kids his age, nurtures a longing to be treated as an adult. After a disheartening incident at a carnival where Josh is deemed too short to enjoy one of the rides, he stumbles upon an unusual wish-granting fortune-telling machine called Zoltar Speaks. Josh wishes to be "big," and the magical device grants his wish, causing him to wake up the next morning as a 30-year-old man.

Having transformed overnight, Josh is now an adult — at least physically. Tom Hanks delivers a tour de force performance as the transformed child stuck in an adult's body, capturing the innocence, exuberance, and outright confusion of a kid caught in his strange circumstances. Hanks' performance is indeed the heart of Big and paved the way for him to become one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading men.

Unprepared to face the adult world, Josh is compelled to leave home after his mother, played by Mercedes Ruehl, fails to recognize him in his grown-up form. Eventually, Josh's best friend, Billy (Jared Rushton), becomes privy to the situation and provides invaluable support to Josh as he navigates his drastically altered life.

What follows is an endearing and unforgettable escapade through New York City, where Josh finds a job at MacMillan Toy Company. He manages to impress his boss, MacMillan, with his childlike understanding and appreciation of toys which is the film's central metaphor—his youthful approach brings a new perspective to the older, out-of-touch board members who've lost sight of what children, their primary target market, really want. The fact that Josh is a child himself proves to be beneficial for the company. Robert Loggia gives an extraordinary performance as the open-minded and supportive boss who becomes an unlikely confidant for Josh.

The film also explores the tender, albeit slightly complicated, romance that blossoms between Josh and his attractive colleague, Susan Lawrence, played by Elizabeth Perkins. Their relationship beautifully captures the inherent innocence and sincerity of first love. Perkins is successful in adding depth to her character—an independent, career-focused woman who finds herself drawn to Josh's pure and childlike charm.

Big is unique in its ability to seamlessly blend light-hearted comedy with touching moments of sincerity that reflect on the complexity of adolescence. The film is also a poignant reminder of the joys and simplicity of childhood. Throughout its runtime, the movie utilizes clever narrative techniques and engaging cinematography to mirror the juxtaposition of adult and child perspectives.

Notable features of the film include the famous piano scene. Without revealing too much, this scene involves a dance on a piano keyboard that's as large as the floor and has become one of the most iconic moments in cinema history—it beautifully encapsulates the film's approach of experiencing the world through a child's eyes.

Director Penny Marshall, through this delightful exploration of childhood and adulthood, puts forth a narrative that is universally relatable and timeless in its message. Big is an ageless delight, remaining fresh and entertaining years after its release. Its freshness and appeal transcend time and generations, speaking to all viewers regardless of their age. Big is not just a movie—it's a warm, wonderful, heartfelt experience. One that revisits the preciousness of childhood dreams and the beauty of viewing the world without adult-made filters—the innocence and simplicity that adults tend to forget but can find again, through the magic of this film.