Big
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.
Critics Sentiment
Josh and MacMillan play duets on the giant walking piano
Josh gets hired as data entry clerk in New York
The film jumps from its lowest point during Josh's mundane job search to its absolute peak with the iconic piano scene at FAO Schwarz.
Big maintains consistently strong audience reception throughout, anchored by universal praise for Tom Hanks' performance as a child in an adult's body. The film peaks with the beloved piano sequence and concludes with an emotionally satisfying ending that critics found both touching and perfectly executed. While some middle sections focusing on adult responsibilities received more modest praise, the overall sentiment remains highly positive with particular strength in its memorable set pieces and genuine emotional moments.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 64
Tom Hanks
Josh Baskin
Elizabeth Perkins
Susan
Robert Loggia
MacMillan
John Heard
Paul
Jared Rushton
Billy
David Moscow
Young Josh
Jon Lovitz
Scotty Brennen
Mercedes Ruehl
Mrs. Baskin
Josh Clark
Mr. Baskin
Kimberlee M. Davis
Cynthia Benson
Oliver Block
Freddie Benson
Erika Katz
Cynthia's Friend
Allan Wasserman
Gym Teacher
Mark Ballou
Derek
Gary Klar
Ticket Taker
Alec Von Sommer
First Brother
Chris Dowden
Second Brother
Rockets Redglare
Motel Clerk
Jamie Tirelli
Spanish Voice (voice)
Paul Herman
Schizo
Crew
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