The movie where Tom Hanks portrays a character who is mentally a kid is Big.
Unpacking Tom Hanks' Role as a "Kid" in Big
Released in 1988, Big is a beloved American fantasy comedy-drama film directed by Penny Marshall. This iconic movie features Tom Hanks in a memorable role that perfectly addresses the question of him being a "kid."
The Premise of Big
The film centers on Josh Baskin, an adolescent boy who, feeling frustrated with the limitations of childhood, makes a wish to be "big" on an antique fortune-telling machine. To his astonishment, his wish is granted overnight, and he physically transforms into an adult.
Tom Hanks' Portrayal of Josh Baskin
While Tom Hanks' character physically appears as an adult for the majority of the film, his mind, personality, and innocent perspective remain those of a young boy. This contrast forms the core of the film's humor and heart. Hanks masterfully captures the essence of an adolescent experiencing adult life for the first time, from navigating a corporate job to forming relationships, all with the unadulterated curiosity and naivete of a child. His performance earned him widespread acclaim, highlighting his ability to embody the unique challenge of being an adult with a child's mind.
This unique premise allows the audience to see the world through the eyes of a child, even as it is inhabited by an adult body, making Big the definitive answer to the question.
Key Details of Big
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | Big |
| Year Released | 1988 |
| Director | Penny Marshall |
| Starring | Tom Hanks (as Josh Baskin) |
| Character's Age | Mentally an adolescent boy, physically adult |
| Genre | Fantasy comedy-drama |
