Big 1988

Josh's Humiliation at the Carnival

Twelve-year-old Josh Baskin stands in line for a carnival ride and catches the attention of a girl from school. However, when he reaches the front of the line, he discovers that he is too short to ride, leading to a moment of deep embarrassment and humiliation in front of his peers.

The Wish at the Fortune-Telling Machine

In an attempt to escape his embarrassing moment, Josh makes a wish at a nearby fortune-telling machine, expressing a desire to be 'big.' This impulsive wish marks a pivotal moment in the story, signifying his longing for maturity and independence.

Transformation into an Adult

The next morning, Josh wakes up to find that his wish has come true; he is now in the body of a 30-year-old man. This shocking transformation presents a new and daunting reality for Josh, who struggles to come to terms with being unrecognizable to his own mother and the challenges of adult life.

Navigating Adult Life

As Josh adapts to his new identity, he begins to experience life as an adult, facing various challenges that come with responsibility. He grapples with basic tasks such as finding a place to live and figuring out how to navigate the world without the guidance of his parents.

Securing a Job at a Toy Company

Josh manages to land a job at a toy company, where his understanding of children's preferences shines through. His youthful perspective allows him to impress the higher-ups, demonstrating that he can contribute fresh ideas that appeal to kids and adults alike.

Promotion to Executive Position

Due to his innovative ideas and the charm he brings to the office, Josh quickly climbs the corporate ladder. Soon, he is promoted to an executive position, a role that is both exciting and perplexing for someone who is essentially still a child at heart.

Complications of Adult Relationships

As Josh navigates his new life, he experiences the complexities of adult relationships, particularly with a female executive named Susan. Their blossoming romance is thrilling for him, but he finds himself overwhelmed by the emotional intricacies of adult attraction.

Revealing His Secret

Confusion mounts when Josh finally decides to reveal his secret to Susan, confessing that he is actually a twelve-year-old boy trapped in an adult's body. Initially skeptical, Susan begins to piece together the truth as she observes his youthful behavior and perspectives.

Encountering the Arcade Machine Again

In a twist of fate, Josh stumbles upon the very arcade machine that granted him his wish. This moment is pivotal as it triggers a wave of nostalgia and contemplation, leading him to reflect on his longing to return to his childhood.

Wishing to Reverse the Spell

In a heartfelt decision, Josh makes the wish to reverse the spell, yearning to return to his mother and reclaim his life as a child. This emotional moment highlights his deep connection with family and the desire to recapture the simplicity of youth.

Return to Childhood

The film culminates as Josh's wish is granted, allowing him to return to his childhood form. This transformation signifies the film's powerful message about the importance of maintaining one’s youthful spirit even as one navigates adult responsibilities.

Bittersweet Farewell

Upon returning to his original form, Josh shares a bittersweet farewell with Susan, recognizing the fleeting nature of their unique connection. The experience leaves both characters changed, with an appreciation for the importance of imagination and youthful exuberance.