The Big Sick (2017) is a critically acclaimed romantic comedy-drama that blends humor, culture, and heartfelt emotions to tell the true story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani and his wife Emily V. Gordon. Directed by Michael Showalter, this film stands out for its unique narrative, strong performances, and its exploration of family dynamics, cultural differences, and love. Based on Nanjiani and Gordon’s real-life relationship, The Big Sick received widespread praise for its writing, direction, and performances, making it a standout in the genre of romantic comedies.
Movie Overview
- Title: The Big Sick
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
- Director: Michael Showalter
- Writers: Kumail Nanjiani, Emily V. Gordon
- Release Date: June 23, 2017
- Cast:
- Kumail Nanjiani as Kumail
- Zoe Kazan as Emily Gardner
- Holly Hunter as Beth Gardner
- Ray Romano as Terry Gardner
- Kurt Braunohler as Chris
- Anupam Kher as Azmat
- Adeel Akhtar as Naveed
Plot Summary
The Big Sick revolves around Kumail (played by Kumail Nanjiani), a Pakistani-American comedian living in Chicago who is caught between his love for Emily (Zoe Kazan), an American woman, and the expectations of his traditional family. Kumail’s parents, especially his father Azmat (Anupam Kher), have long hoped for him to marry a Pakistani woman and follow cultural traditions. However, Kumail falls for Emily, and their relationship faces cultural and familial obstacles.
The plot takes a dramatic turn when Emily falls seriously ill and is put into a medically induced coma. As she fights for her life, Kumail is forced to confront not only his relationship with Emily but also his own relationship with his family, who are in shock over her condition. During this crisis, Kumail forms an unexpected bond with Emily’s parents, Beth (Holly Hunter) and Terry (Ray Romano), who are dealing with their own grief and fear.
As Kumail navigates the pressures of family, love, and personal growth, he must decide how to balance his cultural obligations with his love for Emily and his desire to live authentically.
Why Watch The Big Sick?
- Heartfelt and Genuine Story: The film is based on the real-life love story of Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, and their personal involvement in the writing and creation of the film ensures that the story feels authentic, relatable, and moving.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers standout performances, especially Kumail Nanjiani, who plays a semi-autobiographical role, and Zoe Kazan, who portrays Emily. The chemistry between the leads is palpable. Additionally, the supporting performances from Holly Hunter and Ray Romano as Emily’s parents add emotional depth and humor to the film.
- Cultural and Family Themes: The Big Sick explores the complexities of balancing cultural expectations with personal desires. It highlights the clash between traditional family values and the modern relationships that young adults navigate, providing an insightful look into cultural differences.
- Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama: The film expertly balances humor and emotion. It doesn’t shy away from addressing serious topics, like illness and family conflict, but it also provides plenty of lighthearted moments that keep the film grounded and entertaining.
- Heartwarming and Uplifting: At its core, The Big Sick is about love, family, and the importance of understanding. The film’s emotional resolution is both satisfying and uplifting, leaving viewers with a renewed sense of hope and warmth.
- Award Nominations and Critical Acclaim: The film was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. It also received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, direction, and performances.
How to Watch The Big Sick (2017)
- Streaming Platforms
The Big Sick is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu, where you can watch the film with a subscription or rent it for a fee. - Digital Purchase or Rent
The movie is available for purchase or digital rental through iTunes, Google Play, YouTube Movies, Vudu, and other services. You can stream it in HD or 4K for a higher quality viewing experience. - DVD/Blu-ray
If you prefer physical copies, The Big Sick is available on DVD and Blu-ray. The Blu-ray edition often includes bonus content like behind-the-scenes features, cast interviews, and commentary from the filmmakers. - Avoid Piracy
To enjoy the movie in its best quality and to support the filmmakers, always choose authorized platforms for streaming or rental. Avoid pirated websites, as they often provide low-quality videos and can compromise your device’s security.
Conclusion
The Big Sick is a romantic comedy that stands out for its authenticity, humor, and emotional depth. It skillfully weaves together cultural differences, family dynamics, and personal growth into a heartwarming story of love and resilience. Kumail Nanjiani’s performance, along with Zoe Kazan and the supporting cast, creates a film that is both funny and deeply moving. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt love story, a family drama, or a comedy with real emotional impact, The Big Sick offers something for everyone.
This film is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys films that explore relationships, personal growth, and cultural identity. The Big Sick will leave you with a smile on your face and a deeper understanding of what it means to love, understand, and grow.
Disclaimer
This article encourages viewers to watch The Big Sick through legal and authorized streaming or rental platforms. Piracy is illegal and harms the film industry. Always support the creators by using licensed services for an optimal viewing experience.
