As a genre, the romantic comedy has gotten something of a muddied reputation over the years. It’s often a cloying, mawkish product, one that may draw tears and cheers from some, but eye rolls from others. On the rare occasion that the two components are married properly, you can get something special; The Big Sick is one such example. It’s genuinely heartfelt and moving, while being one of the most hilarious films you’ll see this year.
Based on the real-life relationship of Kumail Nanjiani (who also stars) and Emily V. Gordon, the film tells of how Nanjiani, while performing standup in Chicago, meets a young psychology student Emily (played by Zoe Kazan). A one-night stand is fueled by further flirtations and over time develops into something more serious. With his Pakistani heritage, and parents seeking to make an arranged marriage for him to a Muslim woman, Kumail is torn between two aspects of his life, leaving Emily heartbroken. Matters are thrown into further disarray when she succumbs to an illness that requires her to be put into a medically-induced coma. Returning to her bedside, he finally meets with her parents Beth (Holly Hunter) and Terry (Ray Romano). As Emily lies in a coma, the trio bond, while Kumail reflects on his relationship with both Emily and his family.
There was much buzz about The Big Sick going into SXSW, fresh off its acquisition out of Sundance, and I’m happy to say the praise is entirely deserved. It’s an utterly charming tale of two people falling for each other, only to have cultural differences drive a wedge between them. The illness adds an extra dynamic to the tale, one that brings in reflection; you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone…or slipped into a coma anyway. This isn’t a clumsy switch-up in plot (especially as it’s based on real circumstances) but feels like a natural, fluid depiction of how life throws you a curveball and reframes your perspective and goals, topics already woven into Kumail and Emily’s courtship. His bonding time with Emily’s parents is almost as joyous to watch. Through this journey together, it explores how a relationship isn’t just between two individuals, but often about two families coming together, and the baggage you bring with you.
The comedy comes thick and fast, in the form of stand-up routines, wry character moments, and even pop cultures references like The X-Files and Forrest Gump, while even working in edgier fare such as a joke about 9/11 that provoked such a reaction from the crowd you couldn’t hear the next few lines of dialogue over the laughter in the theater. Much of the comedy does come from the dead-pan fare you’d expect from people dealing a unnerving or uncomfortable situation. Not everything is turned into a joke; there’s a truth to the tale that resonates and will guarantee laughs aplenty, but the occasional tear too.
The film frames Kumail’s conflict well, helping our understanding of people from different cultures who, despite growing up as Americans, still feel connections to, or are obliged to respect, cultural traditions. It’s resonant particularly now, as the country finds itself at something of a turning point. Clearly certain scenes play out differently within the context of today rather then when they really occurred, or even were filmed just a few years ago. It’s a story that mines the humanity within us, as common ground is found over a shared love, and communication and truthfulness win out. The Big Sick offers insights to a very personal tale, but it’s one that is likely familiar to many, and certainly one that needs to be seen.
Nanjiani steps up in a big way in his first lead role in a deft turn for someone primarily known for comedy. His personal connection no doubt helps, but he manages the balance between humorous and the more serious moments well, as well as showing superb comedic timing and some brilliantly subtle physical mannerisms (keep an eye on him in the doctor’s office). Zoe Kazan is perfect, from the twee early stages to the more emotional moments. She brings a lot of life to the role, so when she does disappear into a coma her presence is still strongly felt, aided by some touching voicemails and entertaining high school photos. It’s a very sweet courtship, and you feel great affection for them both, even moreso as a couple. Hunter and Romano turn in some of their best work in years, and their characters are superb foils to Kumali. They also add another (very welcome) layer to the film, an examination of an established relationship, one with its own issues that they’re forced to confront while Emily is ill and Kumail is in their lives. Also, if you’ve ever wanted to see Holly Hunter throw down on a frat-dude, The Big Sick has got you covered. Other notables include stand-up comedy cohorts Kurt Braunohler and Aidy Bryant, while Kumali’s family, notably Zienobia Sfiroff as his matchmaking mother and Adeel Akfitar (Four Lions) as his droll brother, add a lot of depth to his plight. There’s a vein of authenticity that extends to the whole cast, with everyone contributing something, each getting a moment to shine.
The Big Sick was directed by Michael Showalter and produced by Judd Apatow, and it’s possibly the best thing either have put their name on, aligning with their traditional fare of mining human flaws and feelings for a blend of raw and yet touching comedy. Showalter gives the story and characters plenty of room to breathe in a film elevated by the intensely personal story and experiences inspiring it. A perfect marriage of material and talent, brimming with genuine humor, charm, and emotion, The Big Sick is what all rom-coms should aspire to be.
The Big Sick hits theaters on June 23rd, 2017.
