Big

Big

Year: 1988

Runtime: 104 min

Director: Penny Marshall

DramaFantasyComedyRomanceFamily

A teenager's wish to be older comes true when he mysteriously transforms into an adult. Suddenly faced with the challenges of adulthood, he must learn to cope with the unexpected responsibilities and navigate a world that's become surprisingly complicated. He grapples with the consequences of his wish and the difficulties of growing up too fast, all while trying to find his place.

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Big (1988) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at Big (1988) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In a bright‑lit world of carnival lights and teenage insecurities, a shy twelve‑year‑old named Josh Baskin stands at the edge of a roller‑coaster of longing. After a humiliating moment that leaves him feeling smaller than ever, he whispers a desperate wish into a mysterious arcade fortune‑telling machine, hoping to shed the weight of his childhood for just one day. The promise of “being big” feels like a shortcut to freedom, adventure, and the respect he craves.

When morning arrives, Josh discovers that his wish has not merely been heard—it has been granted. He awakens in an adult’s body, his familiar voice now deeper, his reflection that of a stranger, even to his own mother. The city he once navigated on a bike now looms with towering responsibilities: bills, work, and the unspoken expectations of a grown‑up life. The tone balances whimsical optimism with the bittersweet reality of a child thrust into an adult’s shoes, blending light‑hearted humor with moments of quiet introspection.

As he steps into this new world, Josh carries the earnest curiosity of his younger self, seeing the adult landscape through fresh eyes. The film paints a vivid picture of a city that is simultaneously familiar and alien, where playground politics become boardroom negotiations and simple joys turn into complex dilemmas. Amid glowing neon signs and the hum of everyday hustle, the story invites the audience to wonder how a youthful spirit can survive—and perhaps thrive—in a world built for those who have already “grown up.”

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 13:39

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Big Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Big

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Big

More About Big

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