Some movies do something to you. They make you laugh, they move you or – if you are open to it – they give you a life lesson that you will never forget. For me, Big (1988) is such a movie. Every time I watch this 80's classic with Tom Hanks, it touches me again: the playfulness, the adventure and especially the message to approach life with a 'beginners mind'.
The film reminds you of the value of staying curious, being open to unexpected possibilities and not taking things too seriously. It keeps you on your toes: how often do you still have moments of recklessness and letting go? Can't you answer right away? Watch Big , if you have Disney+, you're lucky, you can watch it there. It's a wake-up call, hidden in a playful and nostalgic 80's package, that reminds you not to take everything so seriously and to let loose every now and then. Oh, and Zoltar? That mysterious wishing machine from the film? That's definitely on my wishlist. Read below why this film inspires me so much and why everyone should see Big at least once.
The power of a 'beginners mind'
In Big you meet Josh Baskin, a 13-year-old boy who wishes to be 'big' to transcend the limitations of his young age. Through a wish at the magical Zoltar machine, he literally becomes an adult (played by Tom Hanks) and enters a world full of responsibilities, work pressure and adult expectations. But Josh retains his childlike enthusiasm and wonder, which ultimately makes him successful and loved.
The film reminds us of the power of the aforementioned 'beginner's mind'. This concept, originating from Zen Buddhism, is about approaching life with curiosity, openness and without prejudice - as if everything is new. Josh does this instinctively, and that makes his journey inspiring. It is an invitation to ask questions, play and experiment more often. Because how often do we as adults not let ourselves be limited by 'because that's the way it should be'?
The 80's vibe: nostalgia galore!
Another element that makes Big so much fun to watch is the zeitgeist. The film IS the 80s: from the iconic synthesizer soundtrack to the clothing and scenery. It is a nostalgic trip to an era when everything seemed simpler – a world without smartphones, but with physical wish machines in arcades. It is precisely that simplicity that makes the feeling of magic great.
Take for example the famous scene where Josh plays a duet with his boss (played by Robert Loggia) on a giant piano keyboard in FAO Schwarz, a toy store that feels almost mythical. It is playful, pure and touches the core of being a child – even as an adult.
Zoltar: A Wishing Machine Full of Mystery
No article about Big is complete without a look at Zoltar, the mysterious wish machine that changes Josh's life forever. Zoltar is a fortune teller machine. If you put money in it, you get a good wish in return. Whenever we travel or are at a fair, I always look for it, I find it super fascinating! In America I once found an Elvis Zoltar. I will write a separate article about it soon. So much fun!
Are you hooked too? This -real working- Mini Zoltar and Zoltar fortune telling deck are both available via Bol.
Get inspired by Big
Long story short, if you need a cheerful, inspiring wake-up call, Big is a must watch. It is a reminder to not forget your inner child, to stay curious and to enjoy the little miracles in life. Because life is not meant to be all serious – it can also be a game.
So, plan a movie night, get some popcorn, and let Big’s magic take over. And who knows… you might even make a list of all those little (or big) dreams you still want to make come true. Start wishing for a Zoltar prophecy!
💬 Do you know where a Zoltar is?
Have you seen Big, or are you curious about this 80's classic? Oh and do you know where (in the Netherlands) there is a Zoltar? Let me know!
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