Big Reviews

The best of the spate of body-switching films in the late 80s. BIG features a brilliant, unforced performance by Tom Hanks as a New Jersey Little Leaguer, who after wishing he were older, suddenly finds himself walking around in a 35-year-old body. Hiding in Manhattan until his friend Rushton can track down the carny fortune-telling machine that granted the wish, Hanks gets a job with a toy manufacturing firm and rises quickly up the corporate ladder thanks to his unique kid's insight. BIG is a winning, charming film, primarily because Hanks makes it work. He is extraordinarily convincing as an adolescent who suddenly finds himself dealing with a new, adult body, responsibilities, and a romantic relationship, while simultaneously trying to survive vicious corporate infighting.