Actors: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia, John Heard, Jared Rushton
Directors: Penny Marshall
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 10, 2013
Run Time: 104 / 130 minutes
Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars
“Big” is such a classic piece of film and it also was a real turning point for Tom Hanks as an actor. The film is so sweet, fun and still holds up today. In fact, this film is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. This is just one of those films that you can’t turn off if you come across it. I also feel like it is generational and works with various age groups. Plus growing up in NY, this film used to make to love visiting the FAO Schwarz store every Christmas and jumping on that big piano. If you enjoy this film and do not own it yet on Blu-ray, now is the time to pick it up.
Official Premise: Two-time Oscar Winner Tom Hanks received his first Best Actor Nomination for his disarming turn as a 12-year-old man-child in Penny Marshall’s timeless, hilarious delight. Tired of being a kid, Josh Baskin wishes he was big. When he wakes up the next day, he’s an adult! Now, Josh must hold down a job – and please a new boss (Loggia). Tougher still, he must convince his best friend that he’s still himself, and explain to a beautiful woman (Perkins) who falls for him, that he’s not. Soon, Josh just wants to be a kid again, but can he?
This 25th Anniversary Edition comes from Fox as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD. This new release includes a two cuts of the film, the theatrical 104 minute cut and the 130 minute extended cut. Who doesn’t love the theatrical cut but I enjoyed the extended cut quite a bit as well. “Big” looks quite impressive with its 1080p high-def transfer. It is quite crisp and the overall good for a 1980’s comedy. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track also sounds great, especially with the score and music throughout.
In terms of special features, they are good but nothing really special for the 25th anniversary (and nothing new either from previous releases). “Big Brainstorming” is an audio documentary by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg along with Pete Ventrella. “Big’ Beginnings” is featurette with writers Gary Ross, Anne Spielberg and Producer James Brooks discussing how the film came about. “Chemistry of a Classic” features interviews with cast and crew. “The Work of Play” includes interviews with actual people in the toy business. “Hollywood Backstory: ‘Big'” looks into the history of the film. Lastly “Carnival Party Newswrap” is a look into the film’s premiere.
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