43 Facts About The Movie Big

The Inspiration Behind the Film

Did you know that the writers of Big, Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg, were inspired by the 1950 film, “Father Knows Best? The concept of a child becoming an adult overnight intrigued them and served as the foundation for the screenplay.

Tom Hanks’ Breakthrough Role

Big marked a turning point in Tom Hanks‘ career. The role of Josh Baskin earned him his first Oscar nomination and solidified his status as a leading actor in Hollywood. It paved the way for his future success in films like Forrest Gump and Cast Away.

The Magical Zoltar Machine

The famous Zoltar machine in the movie was a custom-built prop. While it may look like a vintage arcade machine, it was actually created by the film’s production designer, Santo Loquasto, specifically for Big.

The Original Title

The film was initially titled “Big Shots” before it was changed to simply “Big.” The new title perfectly encapsulated the main character’s journey and the overarching themes of adulthood and self-discovery.

Filming Locations

Big was primarily filmed in New York City. Some notable filming locations include FAO Schwarz, the toy store where Josh dances on the giant piano, and the iconic Central Park, where he has his emotional conversation with his best friend, Billy.

The Dance Sequence

The scene where Josh and his love interest, Susan, perform an energetic dance routine on a massive toy store piano has become one of the most memorable moments in movie history. Tom Hanks and co-star Robert Loggia practiced for weeks to perfect the intricate choreography.

Josh’s Signature Catchphrase

Throughout the movie, Josh repeatedly uses the phrase “I don’t get it” when faced with confusing adult situations. It became a catchphrase associated with the character and is often remembered by fans of the film.

The Iconic FAO Schwarz Store

The toy store featured in Big, FAO Schwarz, was a real store in New York City. It closed its doors in 2015 but reopened in 2018 at a new location in Rockefeller Plaza.

The Role of Susan

The character of Susan, played by Elizabeth Perkins, is the love interest of Josh in the film. Interestingly, Susan’s surname is never mentioned in the movie, leaving it up to interpretation.

A Delicious Idea

In one scene, Josh suggests combining two popular snack items – a candy bar and a soda. This inspired a real-life product called “Baby Ruth Cola,” which was released as a tie-in promotion with the movie.

The Piano Duet

The piano duet scene between Josh and Mr. MacMillan, played by Robert Loggia, was mostly improvised by the actors. They had a natural connection on set, which added to the authenticity of their performance.

The Age Transformation

To portray the transformation of Josh from a young boy to an adult, two actors were used on set. David Moscow played young Josh, while Tom Hanks took on the role of adult Josh.

The Film’s Box Office Success

Big was a huge hit at the box office, earning over $151 million worldwide. Considering its budget was around $18 million, the film was a resounding success both financially and critically.

A Young Jared Rushton

Jared Rushton, who played Josh’s best friend, Billy, was only 14 years old at the time of filming. Despite his young age, he delivered a remarkable performance that added depth and humor to the movie.

Tom Hanks’ Oscar Snub

Although Tom Hanks received critical acclaim for his role in Big, he ultimately lost the Best Actor Academy Award to Dustin Hoffman for his performance in Rain Man.

The Original Ending

The movie originally had a darker ending, where Josh chooses to remain an adult and reunites with his childhood friend, Billy. However, the ending was later changed to a more optimistic and heartwarming conclusion.

The Age Regression Scene

The famous age regression scene, where Josh returns to his original child form, was achieved through a combination of visual effects and clever editing techniques. It remains a visually stunning moment in the film.

A Heartfelt Message

At its core, Big is a film about the importance of embracing your inner child and staying true to yourself. It conveys a powerful message about the value of innocence and the beauty of simple joys in life.

Tom Hanks’ Ad-Libs

Tom Hanks is known for his improvisational skills, and Big was no exception. Many of his lines in the film were spontaneous ad-libs, adding an extra layer of humor and authenticity to the character of Josh.

The Film’s Timelessness

Despite being released over three decades ago, Big still resonates with audiences today. Its universal themes of growing up, identity, and the pursuit of happiness continue to captivate viewers of all ages.

A Different Casting Choice

Originally, the role of Susan was offered to actress Debra Winger. However, due to creative differences, she turned down the role, leading to Elizabeth Perkins landing the part.

The Iconic Toy Store Scene

The scene where Josh is given full control of the toy store and selects the best toys for sale was a dream come true for many young viewers. It captured the imagination of children around the world.

A Complex Character

Despite the comical situations he finds himself in, Josh’s character arc in the movie is multi-dimensional. He juggles the challenges of adulthood while longing for the simplicity and innocence of childhood.

The Toy Executive

In the film, Josh works as a toy executive at MacMillan Toy Company. This aspect of the story explores the dichotomy between adult responsibilities and the childlike wonder of the toys he helps create.

Impromptu Dance Lessons

Before shooting the famous dance sequence, Tom Hanks and Robert Loggia took impromptu dance lessons from professional dancers to refine their moves and ensure the routine would be a memorable one.

A Social Commentary

Big subtly touches upon social issues such as consumerism and the pressures of adulthood. It reminds audiences of the importance of finding happiness in simple pleasures rather than material possessions.

The Iconic “Walking Piano”

The giant piano that Josh and Susan dance on in the film became known as the “Walking Piano.” It generated a surge in popularity for the iconic instrument, with many people visiting FAO Schwarz solely to play on the piano themselves.

Reese’s Pieces Connection

Did you know that the Reese’s Pieces peanut butter candy made a cameo appearance in Big? The candy gained considerable exposure in the film and experienced a surge in sales following its release.

The Film’s Cultural Impact

Big not only became a commercial success but also left a lasting cultural impact. It is often cited as one of the best coming-of-age films of all time and has inspired countless movies that explore similar themes.

A Timeless Soundtrack

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Howard Shore, perfectly captures the emotions and nostalgia of Josh’s journey. The music adds depth and enhances the overall storytelling experience.

A Young Josh Baskin

David Moscow, who played the young version of Josh Baskin, had to shave his head for the role as Tom Hanks’ hair color and texture did not match his own. This helped create a seamless transition between the two actors.

The Importance of Friendship

Big highlights the significance of true friendship. The bond between Josh and Billy remains strong throughout the film, serving as a reminder that genuine connections can withstand the challenges of growing up.

A Unique Coming-of-Age Story

Big stands out among other coming-of-age stories due to its magical and fantastical elements. It takes a lighthearted approach to the concept of growing up while maintaining a sense of wonder and enchantment.

The Film’s Legacy

Big has endured the test of time and continues to be celebrated by audiences and filmmakers alike. Its legacy is evident in the numerous references and homages made to the film in popular culture.

A Wish-Fulfillment Fantasy

Big taps into a universal fantasy of many children – the desire to become an adult and experience the freedom and independence that come with it. It explores this concept in a heartwarming and comedic way.

The Towering Inferno Connection

In one memorable scene, Josh and his classmates watch the disaster film “The Towering Inferno” in school. This movie choice serves as a reflection of the adult world’s complexities that Josh is navigating.

Robin Williams’ Involvement

Robin Williams was initially considered for the role of Josh in Big. However, due to scheduling conflicts, he was unable to take on the role, ultimately leaving it to Tom Hanks.

A Genuine Performance

Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Josh Baskin is praised for its sincerity and authenticity. His ability to capture the essence of an innocent child in an adult’s body is a testament to his versatility as an actor.

The Power of Imagination

Big encourages viewers to embrace their imagination and approach life with childlike wonder. It reminds us that sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences can come from letting our imaginations run wild.

The Midlife Crisis Parallels

While it explores the concept of a child becoming an adult overnight, Big also touches upon the theme of a midlife crisis. It serves as a reminder to adults to reconnect with their youthful spirit and find joy in the simplest things.

A Critically Acclaimed Film

Big received positive reviews from critics upon its release. It was praised for its heartwarming story, stellar performances, and ability to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Young Love

The budding romance between young Josh and Susan’s character adds an innocent and tender element to the film. It explores the universal theme of young love and the complexities of navigating relationships.

A Favorite Among Audiences

Big continues to be a beloved film among audiences worldwide. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of childhood, dreams, and the journey to self-discovery ensure its place in cinematic history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Big” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences since its release in 1988. With its heartwarming story, memorable performances, and iconic scenes, it continues to be a beloved film for both young and old. The movie’s exploration of the power of imagination, the magic of childhood, and the importance of staying true to oneself resonates with people of all ages. Tom Hanks delivers a standout performance as Josh Baskin, a 12-year-old boy trapped in a grown man’s body, taking viewers on a journey full of laughter, emotion, and self-discovery. “Big” remains a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the joy of embracing our inner child.

FAQs

1. Who directed the movie “Big”?

The movie “Big” was directed by Penny Marshall.

2. When was the movie “Big” released?

“Big” was released in 1988.

3. What is the movie “Big” about?

“Big” follows the story of a young boy who makes a wish to be “big” and wakes up in the body of an adult overnight. The movie explores the challenges and adventures he faces as he navigates the world of adulthood while trying to find a way back to his true age.

4. Who stars in the movie “Big”?

The movie stars Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, and Robert Loggia.

5. Did “Big” receive any awards?

Yes, “Big” was nominated for two Academy Awards – Best Actor for Tom Hanks and Best Original Screenplay.