
"Little Man" follows the chaotic adventures of Calvin Sims, a dwarf criminal recently released from prison, who teams up with his less-than-bright brother Percy to steal a priceless diamond for the mobster Walken. Their heist takes a wildly unexpected turn when Calvin hides the diamond in the purse of executive Vanessa Edwards. To retrieve the gem, Calvin disguises himself as a baby and is left on the Edwards' doorstep, leading to a weekend of comedic misunderstandings as the family attempts to care for their unexpected "adopted" infant while being threatened by Walken.
The film explores themes of identity and deception, wrapped in a layer of slapstick comedy and absurdity. It playfully critiques stereotypes and challenges societal perceptions, using Calvin's disguise as a commentary on appearances versus reality. The story also touches on family dynamics and the idea that bonds can form under the most unusual circumstances, highlighting the importance of trust and acceptance despite outward differences.
Upon its release, "Little Man" received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its irreverent humor and physical comedy, while others found the premise controversial or distasteful. Nonetheless, it made a notable impact on pop culture, especially for its memorable comedic performances and unique storyline. The film sparked conversations about representation and comedy boundaries, securing its place as a distinctive, if polarizing, entry in early 2000s comedy cinema.