Big (1988)

Nicely directed by Penny Marshall with Tom Hanks marvellously child-like as the boy who wakes up big; succeeds by showing how adult life can become boring while celebrating the joy of toys and play.

The film is genuinely funny thanks to Tom Hanks' engaging performance and a script that avoids gross innuendo, with Josh's innocent perspective revitalising those around him. It is somewhat predictable with a saccharine ending.

Best of the late-80s body-swap films thanks to Tom Hanks's career-making turn as the boy in a man's body. Still charming and funny.

The critic describes 'Big' as a formula fantasy movie directed tactfully and gently by Penny Marshall, with Tom Hanks delivering a predictable but inoffensive little-boy act. It is seen as nostalgic for childhood and suburbia, ultimately selling the slick wonders of immaturity in a wholesome but tepid way.

The film is the best of the late-80s body-swap comedies and showcases Tom Hanks' physical acting as a boy in an adult body. Penny Marshall directs with subtlety, delivering joyful set pieces like the giant piano scene while avoiding crassness in its trickier elements.

The critic calls 'Big' the best of the body-swap comedies, praising it as funny, warm, sophisticated, and imaginative throughout. Direction by Penny Marshall is highlighted for its verve and judgment, along with Tom Hanks' charming performance and a satisfying ending that avoids confusing childlike with childish.

The critic hails Marshall’s film as gold and a consummate ’80s film about kid-dom and growing old too fast, singling out Hanks’ sanguine performance and the inventive handling of the boy-as-man premise, especially the iconic piano scene.

The critic calls the film good and very funny, praising Tom Hanks' wonderfully slapstick and kid-like performance as the standout element. Penny Marshall is commended for keeping the comedy natural, unforced and likeably small without hammering themes.

The critic praises the film's immense charm and Tom Hanks' layered performance as a boy in a man's body, noting his ability to blend vulnerability, fear, and humor without exaggeration. The review highlights the story's exploration of lost innocence and the superiority of childhood freedom over corporate success.