The Big Sick

Directed by: Michael Showalter

2017 | USA | 120 minutes | R

Based on the real-life courtship between Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, The Big Sick tells the story of Pakistan-born aspiring comedian Kumail, who connects with grad student Emily after one of his standup sets. However, what they thought would be just a one-night stand blossoms into the real thing, which complicates the life that is expected of Kumail by his traditional Muslim parents. When Emily is beset with a mystery illness, it forces Kumail to navigate the medical crisis with her parents, Beth and Terry who he's never met, while dealing with the emotional tug-of-war between his family and his heart.

"Hilarious and heartbreaking with no clear trajectory, frequently catching viewers off guard, it's a rom-com of both heart and brain about a couple tested by illness and clashing cultures." - Peter Howell, Toronto Star

"It's a movie that not only puts human imperfections and incongruities on display, but also revels in them." - Ann Hornaday, Washington Post