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Tom Hanks can be seen as the modern Jimmy Stewart as he fits the template perfectly � the everyman. Both have been able to cultivate versatile careers whilst still maintaining the "Darling of America" image they indirectly strive for. With the latter making acting with an invisible six foot rabbit look good in Harvey (1950), the former follows suit with a similarly difficult task of pretending to be a 13 year old boy. Both roles may seem completely different to the untrained eye, but quite obviously, most actors would fear being the first to undertake the unknown in a mainstream film. Like Stewart again, Hanks' performance is great, and came to be a career-defining success. Penny Marshall's film propelled the Californian into the hearts of millions and one step closer to the Academy Award podium he was to have so much joy with in the future. It wouldn't have even been a shock for the nominated Hanks to walk away with an Oscar statuette, but thankfully his characterisations since have proven that he isn't a one-off who could have faded away after one hit comedy. He has shown time again that he is even more of a talent and the best character actor in post-De Niro Hollywood than first expected, with Big acting as his self-proclaimed yardstick.
From when he first gets introduced stumbling half-in and half-out of a pair of jeans, Hanks makes the screen shine. We follow him convince his best friend Billy of his big secret, his dream job in a New York toy store, and his fall in and rapid fall out of love with Susan. Elizabeth Perkins' heroine performs exquisitely for an early role, and John Heard and Robert Loggia compliment Hanks without stealing any of his thunder. The scene with the gigantic piano is just one of the many things which contribute to pushing the tone in the direction of a heart-warming comedy without going on for too long. All three sections run evenly which bring back memories of the Golden Age, and, for what it is, can anyone think of a better film in the family comedy genre? Take a slight immature viewpoint and Marshall makes the premise work, never getting tedious.
The extras
Trailer. Don't let the lack of Extras put you off though when you can pick up this great title for budget prices.
The summary
This flick is a winner on every level. If you want a quick laugh � it delivers. If you prefer to watch more depth, the intensity and strength of human nature are also portrayed excellently. Tom Hanks is utterly terrific.
