Big (film)
Plot Summary
Big is a 1988 American fantasy comedy-drama film directed by Penny Marshall. The film stars Tom Hanks as Josh Baskin, a young boy who makes a wish "to be big" and is then transformed into an adult. The screenplay was written by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg, and the film was produced by James L. Brooks. The film explores themes of childhood innocence, the transition to adulthood, and the complexities of adult life.
Production
Development
The idea for Big originated from a story by Anne Spielberg, who collaborated with Gary Ross to develop the screenplay. The film was produced by Gracie Films and distributed by 20th Century Fox. The project was greenlit due to the unique premise and the involvement of Tom Hanks, who was already a well-known actor at the time.
Casting
Tom Hanks was the first choice for the role of Josh Baskin. Other notable cast members include Elizabeth Perkins as Susan Lawrence, Robert Loggia as MacMillan, and John Heard as Paul Davenport. The casting process was meticulous, aiming to find actors who could convincingly portray the transformation of a child into an adult.
Filming
Principal photography began in New York City and New Jersey. Key locations included the FAO Schwarz toy store and the amusement park where Josh makes his wish. The film's iconic piano scene was shot at FAO Schwarz, where Hanks and Loggia performed a duet on a giant floor piano.
Themes and Analysis
Childhood Innocence
One of the central themes of Big is the innocence of childhood. The film juxtaposes the carefree, imaginative world of children with the often cynical and stressful world of adults. Josh's transformation allows the audience to see adult life through the eyes of a child, highlighting the loss of innocence that often accompanies growing up.
Transition to Adulthood
The film also explores the complexities of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Josh's sudden change forces him to navigate adult responsibilities, relationships, and work life, providing a humorous yet poignant commentary on the challenges of growing up.
Corporate Culture
Big offers a satirical look at corporate culture, particularly in the toy industry. Josh's childlike perspective brings a fresh, innovative approach to his job, contrasting sharply with the jaded attitudes of his colleagues. This theme is exemplified in the scenes where Josh's ideas are initially dismissed but later celebrated for their originality.
Reception
Box Office Performance
Big was a commercial success, grossing over $151 million worldwide. It was one of the highest-grossing films of 1988 and significantly boosted Tom Hanks' career.
Critical Acclaim
The film received widespread critical acclaim for its unique premise, Hanks' performance, and its blend of humor and emotional depth. Critics praised the film for its ability to appeal to both children and adults, making it a timeless classic.
Awards and Nominations
Big was nominated for several awards, including Academy Awards for Best Actor (Tom Hanks) and Best Original Screenplay (Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg). It also received nominations for Golden Globe Awards and won the Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film.
Legacy
Cultural Impact
Big has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The film's iconic scenes, such as the piano duet at FAO Schwarz, have been referenced and parodied in various media. The film also inspired a Broadway musical adaptation, which premiered in 1996.
Influence on Film and Television
The success of Big paved the way for other films exploring similar themes of body-swapping and age transformation, such as 13 Going on 30 and Freaky Friday. The film's blend of fantasy and comedy has influenced numerous filmmakers and screenwriters.