Big

About Big

'Big' is a popular American fantasy comedy-drama film released in 1988. Directed by Penny Marshall and written by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg, the film explores the story of a 12-year-old boy named Josh Baskin who, after wishing to be 'big', transforms overnight into an adult. Josh, stuck in the body of a 30-year-old, must navigate the world of grown-ups, including a career in toy testing and a romantic relationship, all while trying to find a way to return to his young self.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Gracie Films and distributed by 20th Century Fox. The unique script and engaging narrative provided a way to communicate a simple and meaningful theme - the eagerness of children to grow up and the nostalgic desire in adults to relive their childhood. The film was shot in various locations in New York City and New Jersey, creating the quintessential feel of normal life suddenly transformed by a supernatural event.

Actors

• Tom Hanks as Josh Baskin, seamlessly depicted the playful innocence of a child in an adult's body.
• Elizabeth Perkins as Susan Lawrence, Josh's love interest who marvels at his childlike enthusiasm.
• Robert Loggia as MacMillan, the compassionate toy company owner who fosters Josh's career.
• David Moscow as young Josh, captured the confusion and distress of a young boy stuck in an extraordinary situation.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film has been ranked among the 100 funniest American films.
• The iconic keyboard scene was actually filmed on a working oversized toy keyboard.
• Tom Hanks was not the first choice for the role; it was originally offered to Robert De Niro.

Awards

Big was a commercial success and was recognized with awards and nominations. Tom Hanks received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film also received Academy Award nominations for Best Original Screenplay and Best Film Editing.

Quotes

• "I wish I were big."
• "She's a girl. I'm a boy. We're about the same age. Do you really think she's going to be interested in me for my mind?"
• "I get to be on top!" "You can't be on top, I'm on top! My apartment, my rules."

Music, Soundtrack

• 'Heart and Soul' by Howard Hoagland 'Hoagy' Carmichael and Frank Loesser
• 'The Way We Were' by Marvin Hamlisch, Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman