“Big” (1988) is a whimsical, coming-of-age comedy that follows the journey of a young boy named Josh Baskin who magically transforms into an adult overnight after making a wish on an enchanted carnival machine.
With the appearance of his mature self, played by Tom Hanks, Josh must navigate the complexities and challenges of being an adult while still possessing the heart and innocence of a child.
As Josh finds himself immersed in the cutthroat world of corporate America, his once simple life becomes a rollercoaster ride full of hilarious moments and poignant lessons about growing up.
Through humorous encounters, romantic endeavors, and unexpected friendships, “Big” paints a vivid picture of the universal struggles faced by individuals trying to find their place in society.
The film’s sheer brilliance lies in its ability to explore profound themes such as identity, ambition, and love while maintaining an undercurrent of playful nostalgia that evokes wistful memories of our own childhoods.
Director Penny Marshall expertly captures the essence of what it means to straddle two worlds – one filled with youthful exuberance and untapped potential, and another characterized by adult responsibilities and societal pressures.
With its sharp wit and endearing performances, “Big” serves as a reminder to embrace our inner child amidst life’s complexities while never losing sight of what truly matters.
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Review
Big: A Whimsical Tale Worthy of Mark Twain’s Pen
Introduction:
In the realm of cinematic marvels, there is a film that captures the essence of childhood wonderment like few others. “Big,” a delightful creation helmed by Penny Marshall, transports viewers to a world where wishes come true, and the power of imagination reigns supreme. With its captivating storyline, exceptional performances, and remarkable attention to detail, this 1988 masterpiece achieves what many films strive for but seldom accomplish. So sit back, dear readers, as we embark on a journey through the whimsical realm of “Big” – penned in Mark Twain’s distinctive style.
Storyline:
In the bustling cityscape of New York, we find our hero Joshua Baskin. Plagued by adolescent insecurities and a longing for greener pastures, Joshua makes an impulsive wish to be “big.” Much to his astonishment, his fervent desire manifests overnight when he awakens in an adult body. Thus begins Joshua’s marvelous adventure as he navigates corporate America while cherishing his childlike spirit.
Plot:
The plot unravels at a riveting pace as Joshua grapples with intricate adult dynamics—office politics and romantic entanglements—merged with his genuine heart and naivety. As he climbs the career ladder at MacMillan Toy Company while yearning for simplicity and genuine human connection, viewers are enthralled by Joshua’s trials and triumphs.
Characters:
Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Joshua Baskin is nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to capture the essence of childlike innocence within an adult frame is remarkable; it is as if Huck Finn himself had wandered into a modern-day metropolis. Equally captivating is Elizabeth Perkins’ role as Susan Lawrence – the sophisticated executive who unwittingly falls under Joshua’s charm.
Dialogue:
With quips that spark uproarious laughter and insights that touch the soul, “Big” boasts a script woven with brilliance. The dialogue encapsulates both the realities of adulthood and the untainted perspective of a child, ensuring its place among the finest cinematic scripts in history.
Cinematography:
Penny Marshall’s deft directorial hand brings a visual feast to audiences. From grand panoramic shots of the iconic New York skyline to intimate frames bursting with vibrant colors, “Big” immerses viewers in a world that feels both familiar and fantastical.
Soundtrack:
What would a Mark Twain-style tribute be without mentioning the film’s charming soundtrack? Composed by Howard Shore, its whimsical tunes enchant listeners, evoking emotions ranging from nostalgia to unbridled joy. The melodies seamlessly blend into each scene’s fabric, enhancing its impact manifold.
Popularity and Impact:
Upon its release in 1988, “Big” struck a chord with audiences worldwide. Its success resides not only in box office earnings but also in the hearts it charmed. This timeless tale has left an indelible mark on generations, reminding us all to cherish our inner child amidst life’s adversities.
Scenes:
One cannot discuss “Big” without recounting memorable scenes like Joshua dancing on a giant keyboard at FAO Schwarz or his heartfelt rendition of “Heart and Soul.” These iconic moments have become ingrained in popular culture, demonstrating their profound impact on viewers far and wide.
Analysis:
Delving deeper into this fantastical narrative reveals underlying themes of embracing one’s authentic self while navigating societal expectations. Joshua’s journey resonates universally; it reminds us all that even when life appears daunting, retaining our childlike wonder fosters personal growth.
Development:
The story behind “Big” unfolds as a testament to perseverance and passion. Originally written by screenwriter Gary Ross as an homage to his own childhood experiences working with toys, it underwent several rewrites before capturing the attention of director Penny Marshall. Their collaboration ultimately birthed a film that stands the test of time.
Conclusion:
“Big” is an exquisite tale that effortlessly encapsulates the charm and wisdom found within Mark Twain’s beloved works. With its heartfelt storyline, superb performances, and poignant messages, this film continues to enchant audiences, inviting them to embrace their inner child amidst life’s complexities. As we bid adieu to Joshua Baskin and his extraordinary journey, let us remember that sometimes, all we need is a touch of youthful imagination to navigate adulthood’s perplexing waters.
Technical Data
- Release : 1988-06-03
- Runtime : 104
- Genre : Fantasy, Drama, Comedy, Romance, Family
- Cast : Tom Hanks as Josh Baskin, Elizabeth Perkins as Susan, Robert Loggia as MacMillan, John Heard as Paul, Jared Rushton as Billy
- Crew : James L. Brooks as Producer, Howard Shore as Original Music Composer, Todd M. Thaler as Extras Casting, Juliet Taylor as Casting Director, Ellen Lewis as Casting Associate
- Revenue : $151,927,281
- Budget : $18,000,000
- Company : American Entertainment Partners II L.P., Gracie Films, 20th Century Fox
- Popularity : 19.601
- Summary : When a young boy makes a wish at a carnival machine to be big—he wakes up the following morning to find that it has been granted and his body has grown older overnight. But he is still the same 13-year-old boy inside. Now he must learn how to cope with the unfamiliar world of grown-ups including getting a job and having his first romantic encounter with a woman.
- Tagline : Have you ever had a really big secret?
