How Old Was Tom Hanks When He Filmed Big? A Deep Dive Into The Iconic Role

Elaine

10 Apr, 2025

Let's talk about Tom Hanks and one of his most memorable performances in "Big." This movie has been a classic for generations, and people are still curious about the details behind it. If you're wondering how old Tom Hanks was when he filmed "Big," you're in the right place. We're going to break it all down for you, from his age during filming to some fun facts about the movie that you might not know yet. So, buckle up and let's dive right in!

Tom Hanks is one of those actors who seems to get better with age. His career has been nothing short of legendary, and "Big" was one of those roles that really put him on the map. This film wasn't just about a kid trapped in an adult's body; it was a story that resonated with audiences on so many levels. But how old was Tom Hanks really when he stepped into those shoes? Let's get to the bottom of it.

Before we go any further, let's talk about why this movie matters so much. "Big" wasn't just another comedy—it was a groundbreaking film that showed the world what Tom Hanks could do. It was a mix of humor, heart, and a lot of relatable moments that made it a hit. So, if you're ready to learn more about Tom's journey during this iconic role, keep reading. You won't regret it!

Read also:
Life Below Zero Cast How Much Do They Really Get Paid The Ultimate Guide

Tom Hanks' Age During Filming

Alright, let's cut to the chase. How old was Tom Hanks when he filmed "Big"? Well, buckle up because here's the scoop: Tom Hanks was 31 years old when he started filming this movie. That's right, folks. He wasn't even in his thirties yet when he took on this massive role. And if you think about it, that makes his performance even more impressive. Imagine being that young and already carrying such a big movie on your shoulders.

At 31, Tom was at the perfect age to play someone who’s navigating the challenges of adulthood while still holding onto the innocence of childhood. It was a delicate balance, and he nailed it. The film premiered in 1988, so he was right in the prime of his career, ready to take on the world. And oh, did he ever!

Biography of Tom Hanks

Before we dive deeper into "Big," let's take a moment to appreciate the man behind the role. Tom Hanks was born on July 9, 1956, in Concord, California. His full name is Thomas Jeffrey Hanks, and he's been a Hollywood legend ever since he burst onto the scene. From "Splash" to "Forrest Gump," Tom has given us some of the most unforgettable performances in cinematic history.

Early Life and Career

Tom didn't exactly come from a family of actors. His dad was a cook, and his mom worked in hospital administration. But from a young age, Tom knew he wanted to act. He attended Skyline High School in Oakland, California, and later went to Chabot College before transferring to California State University, Sacramento. During college, he studied theater and honed his craft, setting the stage for the incredible career that was to come.

Key Achievements

Tom Hanks has won two Academy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and countless other accolades. He's been nominated for numerous awards throughout his career, and it's not hard to see why. His performances in movies like "Philadelphia," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Cast Away" have left an indelible mark on cinema. And let's not forget his iconic role as Woody in the "Toy Story" franchise. This guy truly does it all!

Personal Information

Full Name	Thomas Jeffrey Hanks
Date of Birth	July 9, 1956
Place of Birth	Concord, California
Spouse	Rita Wilson (married in 1988)
Children	Four (two biological, two stepchildren)

Why Was "Big" Such a Big Deal?

Okay, let's talk about why "Big" was such a game-changer. Directed by Penny Marshall, this movie wasn't your typical coming-of-age story. It was a mix of comedy, drama, and a whole lot of heart. The plot revolves around a 13-year-old boy named Josh Baskin, who magically becomes an adult overnight after wishing to be "big." Tom Hanks plays Josh as an adult, and his performance was nothing short of brilliant.

Read also:
Cfisd 2024 To 2025 Calendar Your Ultimate Guide For A Successful School Year

The movie struck a chord with audiences because it tackled themes that everyone could relate to. Who hasn't dreamed of being older and having all the freedom that comes with it? But as Josh learns, adulthood isn't all it's cracked up to be. There are responsibilities, challenges, and a whole lot of growing up that comes with the territory. And Tom Hanks captured all of that perfectly.

Behind the Scenes of "Big"

Now, let's talk about what went on behind the scenes during the filming of "Big." Believe it or not, this movie wasn't originally intended to be a comedy. In fact, the script was more dramatic at first. But thanks to Tom Hanks' comedic timing and improvisational skills, the film took on a life of its own. Here are a few fun facts about the making of "Big":

Tom Hanks insisted on playing the piano scene himself, even though he wasn't a trained pianist.
The famous "Waldorf Astoria" scene was filmed at the actual Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City.
Penny Marshall, the director, wanted to make sure the movie had a balance of humor and heart, and she succeeded big time.

These little details are what make "Big" such a timeless classic. It wasn't just a movie—it was an experience.

Tom Hanks' Acting Style in "Big"

One of the things that made Tom Hanks' performance in "Big" so special was his ability to blend humor with genuine emotion. He wasn't just playing a grown-up; he was playing a kid trapped in a grown-up's body. That required a unique approach to acting, and Tom delivered in spades.

His body language, facial expressions, and even his voice carried a sense of innocence that made the character believable. And let's not forget about his comedic timing. Whether he was dancing in the office or playing with toys, Tom brought a level of authenticity to the role that made it unforgettable.

Impact of "Big" on Tom Hanks' Career

There's no denying that "Big" was a turning point in Tom Hanks' career. Before this movie, he was known mostly for his work on TV shows like "Bosom Buddies." But after "Big," he became a household name. The film grossed over $150 million worldwide and earned Tom Hanks an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. That's a pretty big deal, if you ask me.

From that point on, Tom was offered roles in some of the biggest movies of the decade. He went on to star in films like "Sleepless in Seattle," "Forrest Gump," and "Apollo 13," cementing his status as one of Hollywood's most talented actors.

Fun Facts About "Big"

Let's wrap up with some fun facts about "Big" that you might not know:

The idea for the movie came from a dream that screenwriter Gary Ross had as a child.
The "Zoltar Speaks" machine that Josh uses to become big was actually a custom-built prop.
Tom Hanks' dance moves in the office were completely improvised.
The film was shot over a period of three months in various locations around New York City.

These little tidbits make the movie even more interesting to watch. It's not just a story—it's a piece of cinematic history.

What Can We Learn from Tom Hanks' Journey?

Tom Hanks' journey in "Big" teaches us a lot about perseverance and passion. At 31 years old, he could have easily taken the safe route and stuck with TV. But instead, he took a chance on a role that was different and challenging. And look where it got him! He went from being a relatively unknown actor to one of the most celebrated performers of his generation.

So, what can we learn from this? Sometimes, taking a risk is worth it. Whether it's in your career or your personal life, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to incredible opportunities. And if you approach it with heart and authenticity, like Tom did, the sky's the limit.

Conclusion

To wrap things up, how old was Tom Hanks when he filmed "Big"? Thirty-one years old. And what a year it was! This movie not only showcased his incredible talent but also solidified his place in Hollywood history. From his acting style to the impact the film had on his career, "Big" was a game-changer in more ways than one.

So, if you haven't seen "Big" yet, I highly recommend it. And if you have, maybe it's time for a rewatch. You might just discover something new about Tom Hanks and his incredible journey. Now, go ahead and share this article with your friends, leave a comment, or check out some of our other articles. Thanks for reading, and keep on rocking!