Big

**”Big” (1988) is a charming and whimsical film that masterfully blends elements of fantasy, comedy, and coming-of-age drama. Directed by Penny Marshall, this delightful classic features an early-career powerhouse performance from Tom Hanks, who portrays Josh Baskin, a young boy stuck in the throes of adolescence yet yearning for the freedom and excitement of adulthood. The movie beautifully opens with a familiar scene at a carnival where, in a moment of frustration, Josh wishes to be “big.” Little does he know, that wish is about to turn his world upside down…

Waking up as a fully grown man the next morning, Josh finds himself navigating the dizzying and often bewildering landscape of adult life. Imagine the mind-blowing transition from being a 13-year-old boy to having the responsibilities—and body—of an adult. Hanks effortlessly captures the essence of a child lost inside a man’s body. His innocent curiosity and genuine reactions to the adult world are pure gold, leaving you both amused and empathetic as he hilariously misinterprets grown-up behavior…

Elizabeth Perkins shines as Susan Lawrence, a savvy co-worker who becomes Josh’s love interest. Their romantic encounters explore a balance of innocence and desire—the kind of first crush that’s impossible to forget. And then there’s Robert Loggia, whose magnetic presence as Josh’s boss turns the film into a poignant reflection on the pure joy and genuine challenges of growing up.

Clocking in at 105 minutes, “Big” never feels rushed. Instead, it takes its sweet time to dive deep into themes of maturity and the bittersweet nature of adult life. The film holds your imagination hostage, drawing you into the fun yet often daunting world of business meetings, corporate challenges, and, of course, the enchanting possibility of making childhood dreams come true. And let’s not forget that iconic piano scene at F.A.O. Schwarz! It’s a heartwarming spectacle that everybody remembers…

With a solid rating of 7.3, it’s no wonder this film continues to resonate with audiences both young and old. It’s a heartfelt reminder that while we grow up in the blink of an eye, the kid inside us never really goes away… So, if you’re in the mood for a nostalgic journey, “Big” is definitely worth a watch on Disney Plus.