The Big Sick
Overview
The Big Sick is a 2017 American romantic comedy-drama film directed by Michael Showalter and written by Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani. The film is based on the real-life relationship between Nanjiani and Gordon, focusing on the cultural clash between Nanjiani's Pakistani heritage and his relationship with Gordon, a white American woman. The film explores themes of love, cultural identity, and the complexities of interracial relationships.
Plot Summary
The story follows Kumail, a stand-up comedian and Uber driver, who meets Emily, a graduate student, after one of his comedy shows. They begin a relationship, but Kumail is hesitant to introduce Emily to his traditional Pakistani Muslim family, who expect him to enter into an arranged marriage. The relationship becomes strained due to Kumail's inability to confront his family's expectations and his own feelings.
Emily falls seriously ill and is placed in a medically induced coma. During this time, Kumail forms a bond with Emily's parents, Terry and Beth, who initially disapprove of him. The film delves into the emotional and cultural challenges faced by the characters as they navigate love, illness, and family expectations.
Cast and Characters
- Kumail Nanjiani as himself
- Zoe Kazan as Emily Gardner
- Holly Hunter as Beth Gardner
- Ray Romano as Terry Gardner
- Anupam Kher as Azmat Nanjiani
- Zenobia Shroff as Sharmeen Nanjiani
Themes
Cultural Identity
The Big Sick addresses the complexities of cultural identity, particularly within the context of immigration. Kumail's struggle to balance his Pakistani heritage with his life in America is a central theme. The film portrays the tension between maintaining cultural traditions and embracing a new cultural environment.
Interracial Relationships
The film provides a nuanced portrayal of interracial relationships, highlighting the challenges and prejudices that can arise. It explores how love can transcend cultural barriers, but also the difficulties that come with such relationships, including familial disapproval and societal expectations.
Illness and Recovery
Emily's illness serves as a catalyst for character development and relationship dynamics. The film realistically depicts the emotional toll of dealing with a loved one's illness, as well as the impact on relationships. It also touches on themes of resilience and personal growth in the face of adversity.
Production
Development
The screenplay was written by Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani, based on their real-life experiences. The project was developed by producer Judd Apatow, known for his work in the comedy genre. The film was produced by Apatow Productions and FilmNation Entertainment.
Casting
The casting process aimed to find actors who could authentically portray the characters' emotional journeys. Zoe Kazan was cast as Emily Gardner, bringing a balance of humor and vulnerability to the role. Holly Hunter and Ray Romano were cast as Emily's parents, adding depth to the family dynamics.
Filming
Filming took place in various locations, including Chicago and New York City. The production aimed to capture the authenticity of the settings, using real locations to enhance the film's realism.
Reception
Critical Response
The Big Sick received widespread critical acclaim for its screenplay, direction, and performances. Critics praised the film's ability to balance humor and emotional depth, as well as its authentic portrayal of cultural and relational complexities.
Box Office
The film was a commercial success, grossing over $56 million worldwide against a budget of $5 million. Its success was attributed to positive word-of-mouth and strong critical reviews.
Awards and Nominations
The Big Sick received numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. It also won the Critics' Choice Award for Best Comedy and received nominations from the Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Impact and Legacy
The Big Sick is considered a significant film in the romantic comedy genre, particularly for its representation of interracial relationships and cultural identity. It has been praised for its authentic storytelling and has influenced subsequent films and television shows that explore similar themes.