The Big Sick Cast: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Holly Hunter

An awkward true story.

Released on March 30, 2017
Comedy Drama Romance

In "The Big Sick," we follow the journey of Kumail Nanjiani, a Pakistan-born comedian portrayed by the actor himself, and his love interest, Emily Gardner, played by Zoe Kazan. The film delves into their budding romance that is not only marked by genuine affection but also complicated by cultural differences. As Kumail navigates the comedic world of stand-up while trying to maintain his family's traditional expectations, he and Emily discover the joys and challenges of their relationship. Their love story serves as a poignant exploration of identity and cultural negotiation in modern romance.

Things take a dramatic turn when Emily falls seriously ill due to a mysterious condition, forcing Kumail into a challenging situation where he must confront the reality of his feelings. The hospital becomes a backdrop for the emotional turmoil that unfolds, as Kumail must navigate not only the crisis surrounding Emily's health but also the dynamics of her outspoken parents, played by Holly Hunter and Ray Romano. Their initial reactions to Kumail add another layer of complexity to the narrative, as they contend with their daughter's well-being while grappling with their own biases and expectations.

As Kumail faces the pressures from both Emily's parents and his own family, who are eager for him to enter an arranged marriage, the film beautifully captures the essence of love that transcends cultural boundaries. "The Big Sick" skillfully illustrates how love can flourish in the most challenging circumstances, ultimately showcasing Kumail's journey toward understanding and acceptance—not just of Emily but also of himself. This heartfelt story of resilience, humor, and the power of connection serves as a celebration of love's ability to overcome obstacles, making it a memorable and relatable cinematic experience.

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Full Cast of The Big Sick

Kumail Nanjiani

as Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani delivers a deeply personal and heartfelt performance in "The Big Sick," portraying a fictionalized version of himself in this touching rom-com based on his real-life courtship with his wife, Emily V. Gordon. Nanjiani's portrayal is both authentic and endearing, as he navigates the complexities of an interracial relationship, the challenges of standing up to his traditional Pakistani family's expectations, and the emotional rollercoaster of dealing with a health crisis that leaves his girlfriend in a coma. His comedic timing, honed through his stand-up and acting career, brings levity to the film's more serious moments, while his dramatic chops shine as he confronts the potential loss of love and the cultural divide he straddles. Nanjiani's performance is the emotional anchor of the film, inviting the audience to empathize with his character's journey, making "The Big Sick" not just a critical success but a relatable and poignant exploration of identity, love, and the humor found in life's unpredictable turning points.

Zoe Kazan

as Emily Gardner

Zoe Kazan delivers a nuanced and heartfelt performance as Emily Gardner in the critically acclaimed film "The Big Sick." Her portrayal of Emily is both authentic and endearing, capturing the complexities of a modern romantic relationship with a blend of wit, vulnerability, and strength. Kazan's chemistry with co-star Kumail Nanjiani is palpable, grounding their characters' evolving connection in a relatable and compelling dynamic. As Emily navigates the challenges of an unexpected illness and the cultural differences that strain her bond with Kumail, Kazan's performance is a testament to her range, adeptly balancing comedic timing with the emotional depth required for the film's more dramatic moments. Her ability to convey the resilience and warmth of her character makes Emily's journey one that resonates deeply with audiences, adding a layer of richness to this real-life inspired story of love and courage.

Holly Hunter

as Beth Gardner

Holly Hunter delivers a compelling and emotionally resonant performance as Beth Gardner in the critically acclaimed film "The Big Sick." As the mother of a young woman in a coma, Hunter's portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety and strength. She brings a fierce protectiveness and vulnerability to the role, perfectly capturing the complex blend of hope, despair, and determination that her character experiences. Hunter's performance is particularly noteworthy in her interactions with Kumail Nanjiani's character, where her nuanced reactions—ranging from suspicion to a heartbreaking plea for connection—highlight the film's themes of love, cultural divide, and the boundless depths of parental concern. Her ability to convey deep emotion with the slightest change in expression or tone makes her a standout in the film, grounding the narrative in authentic human experience.

Ray Romano

as Terry Gardner

Ray Romano delivers a nuanced and poignant performance as Terry Gardner in the critically acclaimed film "The Big Sick." As the concerned father navigating the complexities of his daughter's sudden illness and her burgeoning interracial relationship, Romano brings a layers of warmth and authenticity to the screen. His portrayal of Terry is a delicate balance of paternal protectiveness and an endearing efforts to connect with his daughter's boyfriend, played by Kumail Nanjiani. Romano's comedic timing, a skill honed from his television sitcom days, adds a lightness to the film's more serious themes, providing moments of levity without undermining the emotional weight of the narrative. His interactions with Nanjiani are particularly engaging, showcasing a chemistry that is both believable and touching. Romano's performance is a testament to his range as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from humor to heartache, and his ability to convey the depth of a father's love and vulnerability in the face of uncertainty.

Anupam Kher

as Azmat Nanjiani

Anupam Kher delivers a performance of nuanced warmth and paternal wisdom as Azmat Nanjiani in the critically acclaimed film "The Big Sick." As the father of the lead character, Kumail Nanjiani (played by Kumail Nanjiani himself), Kher brings a gentle gravitas to the role, infusing Azmat with a sense of quiet resilience and unspoken love. His portrayal captures the complexities of a Pakistani immigrant father juggling the expectations of his culture with the realities of raising a family in America. Kher's Azmat is a man who cherishes tradition, yet he is not immune to the charms and opportunities of their adopted country. His interactions with his on-screen son are layered with subtlety, revealing a deep affection beneath a veneer of cultural rigidity. Kher's performance is a highlight of the film, providing both comedic relief and poignant moments that resonate with the themes of love, identity, and reconciliation. His ability to convey a range of emotions with slight changes in expression and tone makes his Azmat a character that audiences can empathize with, regardless of their background, thereby contributing significantly to the film's universal appeal.