Tom Hanks’ Age During “Big”
“Big,” the enchanting and heartwarming tale of a young boy who wakes up in the body of an adult, captivated audiences worldwide upon its release. This iconic film, directed by Penny Marshall, is a testament to the power of imagination, the joy of childhood, and the universal desire to understand oneself. A significant reason for the film’s enduring success lies in the exceptional performance of its lead actor, Tom Hanks. His portrayal of Josh Baskin, a thirteen-year-old trapped in the body of a thirty-something man, struck a chord with viewers of all ages. But how old was Tom Hanks in “Big” when he stepped into these larger-than-life shoes?
This article delves into that very question, exploring not only the actor’s age at the time but also the context of his burgeoning career and the subtle yet significant ways his age influenced his unforgettable performance. We’ll journey back to the late nineteen eighties, a pivotal time for both Hanks and the movie industry, to uncover the story behind the man who brought the boy to life. Tom Hanks was a rising star, and “Big” proved to be a transformative moment, solidifying his status as a leading man and setting the stage for the remarkable career that would follow.
The answer, quite simply, is that Tom Hanks was thirty-one years old during the filming and release of “Big.” Filming primarily took place in nineteen eighty-seven, with the movie gracing theaters in nineteen eighty-eight. Considering the inherent challenges of playing a character significantly younger than oneself, this age becomes particularly noteworthy. It begs the question: how did an actor in his early thirties so convincingly embody the spirit of a thirteen-year-old boy? The answer lies, in part, in Hanks’ remarkable talent, his dedication to the role, and the specific point he had reached in his acting career.
Context of Hanks’ Career at the Time
By nineteen eighty-seven, Tom Hanks was far from an unknown quantity in Hollywood. He had already established himself as a versatile and charismatic actor, capable of handling both comedic and dramatic roles. His career trajectory, however, was still on an upward climb. Early roles in television series such as “Bosom Buddies” had showcased his comedic timing and innate likeability. These smaller screen beginnings helped to sharpen his skills and connect with early audiences.
On the big screen, Hanks had already garnered attention with films like “Splash,” where he played a man who falls in love with a mermaid, and “Bachelor Party,” a raucous comedy that further cemented his reputation as a comedic talent. These early roles demonstrated his range, but they did not fully capture the depth and complexity that he was capable of bringing to a character. He was clearly a gifted performer, but he was still searching for the role that would truly elevate him to stardom.
“Big” arrived at a crucial juncture in Tom Hanks’ career. It was a project that offered him the opportunity to showcase his comedic abilities while also tapping into a deeper emotional well. The role of Josh Baskin demanded a delicate balance of naivete, wonder, and vulnerability. It required Hanks to connect with his own inner child, to tap into a sense of innocence that many adults often lose touch with. This balance is what made “Big” such a memorable movie, and it required Hanks to truly understand both the character of an adult and the feelings of a kid. “Big” wasn’t only a kids movie, but a movie about connecting to your inner kid.
How His Age Influenced the Role
One of the most remarkable aspects of Tom Hanks’ performance in “Big” is his ability to seamlessly blend the childlike wonder of Josh Baskin with the physical presence and mannerisms of an adult man. His age, thirty-one, played a critical role in achieving this delicate balance. While still relatively young, Hanks possessed the maturity and experience necessary to understand the nuances of adult behavior. He could convincingly portray the physicality of an adult while simultaneously channeling the emotions and impulses of a child.
A younger actor, perhaps closer in age to the character of thirteen-year-old Josh, might have struggled to convincingly portray the adult aspects of the role. Conversely, an older actor might have found it more challenging to recapture the innocence and naivete of childhood. Hanks, at thirty-one, found himself perfectly positioned to bridge this gap.
His age allowed him to bring a certain level of self-awareness to the character. He understood the absurdity of the situation, the inherent humor in a child navigating the complexities of the adult world. At the same time, he was able to approach the role with a sense of sincerity and empathy. He never condescended to the character of Josh Baskin, treating him with respect and understanding, even in the most comical situations. The script called for someone who could be both funny and deeply sympathetic, and Hanks was perfectly cast.
Consider, for example, the iconic scene in which Josh and his boss, Mr. MacMillan, play a duet on a giant floor piano at FAO Schwarz. Hanks’ performance in this scene is a masterclass in physical comedy and childlike exuberance. He throws himself into the scene with abandon, his face lit up with genuine joy. It’s a moment that perfectly captures the spirit of the movie, and it’s a testament to Hanks’ ability to connect with his own inner child.
Or take the scene where Josh expresses his loneliness and confusion to his friend Billy. In this moment, Hanks sheds the comedic facade and reveals the vulnerability and uncertainty that lies beneath the surface. He conveys the sense of a child lost in an adult world, longing for connection and understanding.
These moments, and countless others throughout the movie, demonstrate the depth and complexity of Hanks’ performance. He wasn’t simply playing a caricature of a child in an adult body; he was creating a fully realized character with his own unique set of emotions and motivations. It was this nuanced approach that made his performance so believable and so resonant with audiences.
“Big” in Retrospect
“Big” proved to be a watershed moment in Tom Hanks’ career. The movie’s critical and commercial success catapulted him to a new level of stardom. He received widespread acclaim for his performance, earning his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. While he didn’t win that year, the nomination served as a validation of his talent and a sign of things to come.
The success of “Big” opened doors to a wider range of roles for Hanks. He was no longer simply seen as a comedic actor; he was now recognized as a versatile performer capable of handling both comedic and dramatic material. In the years that followed, he would go on to deliver a string of iconic performances in films such as “Sleepless in Seattle,” “Philadelphia,” “Forrest Gump,” “Apollo Thirteen,” and “Saving Private Ryan.” This list of movies speaks to Hanks’ commitment to his art.
“Big” also had a significant cultural impact. The movie tapped into a nostalgia for childhood, a yearning for simpler times, and a desire to recapture the innocence and wonder that often fades with age. The movie’s themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery resonated with audiences of all ages. The movie was light-hearted, but it addressed important questions about growing up, making choices, and understanding who you are. “Big” became a classic, a beloved film that continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.
Conclusion
So, to answer the initial question, Tom Hanks was thirty-one years old when he starred in “Big.” However, his age is just one piece of the puzzle. What truly matters is the way he used his age and experience to craft a performance that was both hilarious and deeply moving. His ability to embody both the childlike wonder and the mature understanding of Josh Baskin is a testament to his exceptional talent as an actor.
“Big” is more than just a feel-good movie; it’s a reflection on the human condition. It reminds us of the importance of embracing our inner child, of never losing sight of the simple joys in life, and of cherishing the connections we have with others. Tom Hanks’ performance in “Big” is a timeless reminder of these values, and it continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day. “Big” cemented Tom Hanks as a household name and a talented actor. “Big” taught viewers to believe in the power of child-like wonderment. The lasting impact of both the movie and Hanks’ age is a testament to the strength of the film and the performance. The fact that people still ask, “How old was Tom Hanks in ‘Big’?” shows the movie still resonates and keeps people wondering.
