Movie Review: The Big Sick (2017)
Introduction
Directed by Michael Showalter and written by real-life couple Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, The Big Sick is a heartfelt romantic comedy that blends humor with raw emotion. Released in 2017, the film tells the true story of how Kumail and Emily’s relationship overcame cultural differences, family pressures, and a life-threatening illness. With its sharp wit, touching performances, and honest exploration of love and identity, The Big Sick stands out as one of the most poignant rom-coms of the decade.
Plot Summary
Kumail (Kumail Nanjiani), a Pakistani-American comedian, meets Emily (Zoe Kazan), a grad student, at one of his stand-up gigs in Chicago. What begins as a one-night stand quickly evolves into a serious relationship, despite Kumail’s reluctance to introduce Emily to his traditional Muslim family. His parents, who are intent on arranging a marriage with a Pakistani woman, are unaware of Emily’s existence.
Their relationship faces a breaking point when Emily discovers Kumail’s hesitations, leading to a painful breakup. Shortly after, Emily falls gravely ill and is placed in a medically induced coma. Kumail finds himself navigating her illness alongside her parents, Beth (Holly Hunter) and Terry (Ray Romano), leading to unexpected bonds, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of love and sacrifice.
Themes and Storytelling
The Big Sick is more than a love story—it’s an exploration of cultural identity, family dynamics, and the challenges of forging connections in the face of adversity. The film deftly tackles serious topics like racism, generational conflict, and the immigrant experience while maintaining a light-hearted and comedic tone. The screenplay’s authenticity, drawn from Nanjiani and Gordon’s real-life experiences, adds a layer of depth that resonates with audiences.
The film also shines in its portrayal of flawed, relatable characters. Kumail’s internal conflict between his cultural heritage and personal desires is portrayed with nuance, while Emily’s parents offer a glimpse into a long-term marriage with its own set of challenges.
Performances
Kumail Nanjiani delivers a career-defining performance, balancing humor with vulnerability. His portrayal of a man torn between familial expectations and personal happiness is both relatable and compelling. Zoe Kazan brings warmth and authenticity to Emily, making her absence during much of the film’s second act all the more impactful.
Holly Hunter and Ray Romano steal scenes as Emily’s parents. Hunter’s fierce yet tender portrayal of Beth and Romano’s understated, awkward humor as Terry add depth and heart to the story. Their evolving relationship with Kumail is one of the film’s highlights, offering moments of both tension and genuine connection.
Visuals and Direction
Michael Showalter’s direction is understated, allowing the performances and script to take center stage. The cinematography by Brian Burgoyne captures the vibrancy of Chicago’s comedy scene and the intimacy of the hospital setting without overshadowing the story’s emotional core. The film’s pacing is well-balanced, blending moments of levity with poignant drama.
Strengths and Critiques
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its seamless blending of humor and emotion. The witty dialogue, often inspired by Nanjiani’s stand-up comedy, provides consistent laughs while the more dramatic moments land with genuine impact. The film’s cultural commentary is insightful without feeling preachy, offering a thoughtful perspective on the immigrant experience and the complexities of navigating two worlds.
However, some critics have noted that Emily’s character feels underdeveloped compared to Kumail’s, as much of her role revolves around her illness. While this is understandable given the film’s autobiographical nature, it leaves room for more exploration of her perspective.
Legacy and Impact
The Big Sick was a critical and commercial success, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay and becoming a touchstone for modern romantic comedies. Its blend of personal storytelling and universal themes has inspired a wave of more grounded, authentic rom-coms. The film also marked a significant step forward for representation, showcasing a Pakistani-American protagonist in a mainstream Hollywood film.
Conclusion
The Big Sick is a refreshingly honest and deeply moving film that transcends the rom-com genre. With its sharp writing, standout performances, and heartfelt exploration of love and cultural identity, it delivers a story that is both uniquely personal and universally relatable. Whether you’re looking for laughs, tears, or a mix of both, The Big Sick is a must-watch that will linger in your heart long after the credits roll.
FAQs About The Big Sick
Q: Is The Big Sick based on a true story?A: Yes, the film is based on the real-life love story of Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, who co-wrote the screenplay.
Q: What are the main themes of the movie?A: The film explores love, cultural identity, family dynamics, and the challenges of navigating relationships in the face of adversity.
Q: Who plays Emily in the movie?A: Emily is portrayed by Zoe Kazan, who brings warmth and authenticity to the role.
Q: How does The Big Sick address cultural differences?A: The film highlights Kumail’s struggle to balance his Pakistani heritage with his personal desires, including navigating his family’s expectations for an arranged marriage.
Q: Is The Big Sick a comedy or a drama?A: It’s a blend of both. The film uses humor to tackle serious topics, creating a heartfelt dramedy that resonates with audiences.
Q: What role do Emily’s parents play in the story?A: Emily’s parents, played by Holly Hunter and Ray Romano, form a complex relationship with Kumail, adding emotional depth and humor to the film.
Q: Where was The Big Sick filmed?A: The film was shot in Chicago, capturing the city’s vibrant comedy scene and diverse culture.
Q: What makes The Big Sick stand out among romantic comedies?A: Its autobiographical roots, cultural commentary, and authentic performances set it apart, making it a modern classic.
Q: Did The Big Sick win any awards?A: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and received critical acclaim for its writing and performances.
Q: Is The Big Sick appropriate for all ages?A: The film is rated R for language and adult themes, making it best suited for older teens and adults.
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