Eighteen years ago, on August 31, 2006, the Wayans brothers brought their unique brand of comedy to the big screen with the release of Little Man. Directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans and starring Shawn and Marlon Wayans, this film quickly became a staple in the comedy genre, remembered for its outrageous humor and the brothers’ undeniable chemistry.
Little Man tells the story of Calvin Sims (played by Marlon Wayans), a small but notorious jewel thief who goes to extreme lengths to retrieve a stolen diamond. Through a series of comical events, Calvin disguises himself as a baby to get close to the unsuspecting Darryl (Shawn Wayans) and his wife Vanessa (Kerry Washington). The film is packed with slapstick humor, exaggerated situations, and the kind of offbeat jokes that the Wayans family is famous for.
Upon its release, Little Man was met with mixed reviews but found success at the box office, grossing over $101 million worldwide. The film’s over-the-top humor and visual gags appealed to audiences, particularly fans of the Wayans’ earlier works like White Chicks and Scary Movie.
Though not without its critics, Little Man has gained a cult following over the years. It’s remembered as a testament to the Wayans brothers’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedy, no matter how absurd the premise might be. Marlon Wayans’ portrayal of Calvin, a grown man posing as a baby, remains one of the most memorable aspects of the film, showcasing his physical comedy skills and the seamless use of CGI technology for the time.
