How Old Was Tom Hanks In Big? A Look At The Iconic Star’s Age In The Classic Film

Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, has been captivating audiences for decades with his incredible performances. Among his most iconic films is the 1988 comedy-drama “Big,” a movie that cemented his status as a leading man in the industry. But have you ever wondered how old Tom Hanks was in “Big” when he brought the unforgettable character of Josh Baskin to life?

The film “Big” follows the story of a young boy who wishes to be “big” and wakes up to find himself in the body of an adult. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of the childlike yet grown-up Josh Baskin was both heartwarming and comedic, earning him widespread acclaim. Released in 1988, the movie remains a timeless classic, and fans are often curious about the age of the star during its production.

Understanding the timeline of Tom Hanks’ age during this pivotal moment in his career not only sheds light on his journey as an actor but also allows fans to appreciate his talent even more. Let’s dive into all the details about Tom Hanks’ age in “Big,” along with fascinating insights into his life, career, and the making of this cinematic masterpiece.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Tom Hanks
• How Old Was Tom Hanks in Big?
• When Was Big Released and Why Was It a Hit?
• What Was the Plot of Big?
• How Did Tom Hanks Prepare for His Role in Big?
• Tom Hanks’ Age During Production
• Why Is Tom Hanks’ Performance in Big So Iconic?
• What Awards Did Tom Hanks Win for Big?
• How Did Big Impact Tom Hanks’ Career?
• Did Tom Hanks Perform the Famous Piano Scene Himself?
• Where Was Big Filmed?
• How Old Was Tom Hanks in Big vs. Other Movies?
• What Made Big a Box Office Success?
• Interesting Facts About Big and Tom Hanks
• Legacy of Big and Tom Hanks in Hollywood

Biography of Tom Hanks

Born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California, Tom Hanks grew up to become one of the most celebrated actors in the world. Known for his versatility and charisma, Hanks has starred in a wide range of films, from romantic comedies to intense dramas. His journey into acting began during his college years, and by the 1980s, he had started gaining recognition in the industry.

Here are some key details about Tom Hanks:

How Old Was Tom Hanks in Big?

When “Big” was released in 1988, Tom Hanks was 32 years old. The actor was born in 1956, making him the perfect age to portray the unique role of an adult with the spirit of a child. His youthful energy and comedic timing made Josh Baskin a relatable and enduring character.

It’s worth noting that Hanks’ ability to embody the innocence of a 12-year-old boy in the body of a grown man was one of the key reasons the film resonated with audiences. His age at the time of filming allowed him to bring a level of maturity to the role while still capturing the childlike wonder essential to the character.

When Was Big Released and Why Was It a Hit?

“Big” hit theaters on June 3, 1988, and quickly became a box office success. Directed by Penny Marshall, the film was praised for its heartfelt storytelling, clever humor, and Tom Hanks’ incredible performance. It grossed over $150 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful films of that year.

The movie’s universal appeal lay in its ability to connect with audiences of all ages. From children who dreamed of growing up too fast to adults longing to recapture their youth, “Big” struck a chord with everyone, solidifying its place in cinematic history.

What Was the Plot of Big?

The plot of “Big” revolves around 12-year-old Josh Baskin, who makes a wish at a carnival fortune teller machine to become “big.” The next morning, he wakes up as an adult, played by Tom Hanks, and must navigate the challenges of adulthood while retaining his childlike innocence.

As Josh embarks on a journey filled with both hilarious and heartfelt moments, he learns valuable lessons about growing up, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The film’s blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy elements made it an instant classic.

How Did Tom Hanks Prepare for His Role in Big?

To accurately portray a child trapped in an adult’s body, Tom Hanks worked closely with young actor David Moscow, who played the younger version of Josh Baskin. Hanks observed Moscow’s mannerisms and behaviors to ensure his performance was authentic and believable.

Hanks also brought his natural charisma and humor to the role, which helped endear him to audiences. His preparation and dedication to the character were evident on screen, making his portrayal one of the highlights of the film.

Tom Hanks’ Age During Production

Filming for “Big” began in late 1987, which means Tom Hanks was 31 years old during production. By the time the movie was released in June 1988, he had turned 32. This time frame was a crucial period in Hanks’ career, as he was transitioning from comedic roles to more diverse and complex characters.

Hanks’ age during “Big” allowed him to bridge the gap between youthfulness and adulthood, a quality that was essential for the role of Josh Baskin. His performance was so convincing that it earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Why Is Tom Hanks’ Performance in Big So Iconic?

Tom Hanks’ performance in “Big” is considered iconic because of his ability to seamlessly blend comedy and drama while portraying a character with a unique perspective. His portrayal of Josh Baskin was both humorous and heartfelt, capturing the essence of a child’s innocence in an adult’s world.

The role showcased Hanks’ versatility as an actor and marked a turning point in his career. It also set the stage for his future success in Hollywood, proving that he could excel in both comedic and dramatic roles.

What Awards Did Tom Hanks Win for Big?

Tom Hanks received widespread acclaim for his performance in “Big” and was nominated for several major awards. He earned his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, as well as a Golden Globe win for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

These accolades not only recognized Hanks’ talent but also elevated his status in Hollywood, paving the way for his future success in the industry.

How Did Big Impact Tom Hanks’ Career?

“Big” was a turning point in Tom Hanks’ career, as it showcased his ability to take on more complex and challenging roles. The film’s success opened doors for Hanks in Hollywood, leading to a string of iconic performances in movies such as “Forrest Gump,” “Cast Away,” and “Saving Private Ryan.”

The movie also helped solidify Hanks’ reputation as a leading man who could balance humor and emotion, a trait that has defined his career ever since.

Did Tom Hanks Perform the Famous Piano Scene Himself?

One of the most memorable scenes in “Big” is the piano dance sequence, where Josh Baskin plays “Chopsticks” on a giant floor piano. Tom Hanks performed the scene himself, along with co-star Robert Loggia, without the use of stunt doubles.

The iconic scene was filmed at FAO Schwarz, a famous toy store in New York City, and remains one of the most beloved moments in the film.

Where Was Big Filmed?

“Big” was filmed in various locations across New York City, including Coney Island, Manhattan, and the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store. These locations added authenticity to the film and helped capture the vibrant energy of the city.

The use of real-life settings also contributed to the movie’s charm and appeal, making it a visual treat for audiences.

How Old Was Tom Hanks in Big vs. Other Movies?

At 32 years old, Tom Hanks was at a pivotal stage in his career when he starred in “Big.” Comparatively, he was 28 during “Splash” (1984) and 36 during “A League of Their Own” (1992). Each of these roles showcased different aspects of his talent, but “Big” remains one of the most defining films of his early career.

What Made Big a Box Office Success?

Several factors contributed to the box office success of “Big,” including Tom Hanks’ performance, Penny Marshall’s direction, and the film’s universal themes. The movie resonated with audiences because of its heartwarming story and relatable characters, making it a timeless classic.

Interesting Facts About Big and Tom Hanks

• The fortune teller machine, Zoltar, became an iconic symbol of the film.
• Tom Hanks initially turned down the role of Josh Baskin but later changed his mind.
• The film was the first directed by a woman, Penny Marshall, to gross over $100 million.

Legacy of Big and Tom Hanks in Hollywood

“Big” remains one of the most beloved films in Tom Hanks’ career and continues to inspire audiences around the world. The movie’s success helped pave the way for Hanks to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, and its legacy lives on as a testament to the power of great storytelling and unforgettable performances.