The Hospital Revelation, Reelive

Kumar
Kumar

This is not how it's supposed to go.

Emily's Dad
Emily's Dad

You know, when I was your age, I didn't know how to love either.

Kumar
Kumar

I love her.

Emily's Dad
Emily's Dad

Do you? Because love is more than words.

Kumar
Kumar

I know that. I just—this isn't the right time for this.

Emily's Dad
Emily's Dad

When is the right time, then? When she’s awake and you're too late?

Kumar
Kumar

I can’t lose her.

Parental Expectations, Reelive

Kumar's Mom
Kumar's Mom

Why can’t you meet a nice girl from our culture?

Kumar
Kumar

Because I’m in love with Emily.

Kumar's Dad
Kumar's Dad

Emily? Is she a doctor?

Kumar
Kumar

No, she’s not a doctor, but she’s amazing.

Kumar's Mom
Kumar's Mom

You can’t make this decision lightly.

Kumar
Kumar

I’m not... this isn’t a decision! It’s how I feel!

Cultural Differences, Reelive

Kumar
Kumar

You know, sometimes I feel like a walking stereotype.

Emily
Emily

And I feel like a white girl who doesn’t know how to eat with chopsticks.

Kumar
Kumar

But that’s fine! We both don’t have to fit into a mold.

Emily
Emily

Exactly! What matters is who we are together.

The Comedy Routine, Reelive

Kumar
Kumar

My parents made me do that thing where you pretend to date someone.

Audience Member
Audience Member

What do you mean?

Kumar
Kumar

You know, the ‘let’s meet each other’ setup.

Kumar
Kumar

But now I’m in love with someone who’s not even Indian!

Audience Member
Audience Member

So what?

Kumar
Kumar

Exactly. So what?

Hospital Interaction, Reelive

Emily's Mom
Emily's Mom

I never thought we’d have to meet like this.

Kumar
Kumar

Me neither. I promise I’ll take good care of her.

Emily's Dad
Emily's Dad

You better know how to cook.

Kumar
Kumar

Actually, I’ve got a great microwave!

Kumail Nanjiani

I love you. I love you so much. I love you in a way that even you can’t know.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

So, do you want to marry me? Or do you just want me to pay for your hospital bills?

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

You have to be kind of a f#ck-up to think that you’re not good enough for someone.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

It's not that I'm not ready. It's just that I don't know how to do this.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

There's no way to know how this goes, we just have to trust each other.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

I can't pretend to be someone I'm not anymore.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

You're in the hospital, so you can’t really mean it when you say you love me.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

I’d love to see you awkwardly interact with my family.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail’s father

You think you’re going to be more successful than your dad? You think you’re going to make it in America? Who are you kidding?

Kumail’s father

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

It's like a pain that you take into the world. It's just the kind of thing you have to live with.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail’s mother

Welcome to the family. You’re doing great.

Kumail’s mother

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

You won’t believe how fast things happen when a person almost dies.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

We are not going to have an arranged marriage.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

Please don’t let me die. I really want to go to that comedy show.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

I want to make a home with you.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

You can’t just not try because you think it’ll hurt.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

This is not how I envisioned my life.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

I want to make an I Love You that's based on all the things I've seen.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

You gotta take the leap sometimes.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

You can love someone and not be able to be with them.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily Gardner

I just wanted you to know that I broke up with a guy who is not you.

Emily Gardner

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

It’s not just a night out, it’s a way of life.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Emily’s father

Just because things don't work out how you imagined them, doesn't mean you failed.

Emily’s father

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

I don’t know if your dad is over-reacting, but it's a family trait.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive
Kumail Nanjiani

The big sick is being sick... and sick of all of it.

Kumail Nanjiani

The Big Sick, Reelive

Come on Eileen

Come on Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners, Played during a party scene

The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)

The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy) by Simon & Garfunkel, Background music during a reflective moment

All I Want

All I Want by Kodaline, Emotional scene where Kumail reflects on his feelings

Sadi Gali

Sadi Gali by Lehmber Hussainpuri, Romantic scene between Kumail and Emily

I Will Always Love You

I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston, Played in a memorable heartbreaking moment


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Kumail's Stand-Up Routine

Kumail is on stage, performing stand-up. He shares stories about his family and his experiences as a Pakistani immigrant in America. The humorous yet poignant approach leads into tension when he talks about his struggles with love and identity, capturing the barriers he faces culturally and personally.

Context: This routine sets the tone for the film, showing how Kumail uses comedy to navigate his complex life, while also foreshadowing the romantic challenges he will face.

Meeting Emily in the Comedy Club

Kumail meets Emily after one of his shows. Their initial chemistry is authentic and playful, filled with witty banter. This moment is significant as it marks the beginning of their relationship and shows their instant connection despite their different backgrounds.

Context: This meeting is a defining moment where Kumail's personal and cultural conflicts begin to intertwine with his feelings for Emily, setting up the central romantic storyline.

Kumail's Family Dinner

Kumail invites Emily to a family dinner. The experience is awkward as cultural misunderstandings emerge, leading to cringe-worthy but humorous moments. Emily feels out of place yet tries to fit in, while Kumail faces the pressure of his family's expectations.

Context: This dinner showcases the cultural divide between Kumail's life and his relationship with Emily, highlighting the challenges they face together.

Emily's Health Crisis

Emily falls seriously ill and is placed in a medically induced coma. Kumail's panic and confusion rival the emotional tension as he confronts the possibility of losing her. He experiences a profound sense of helplessness.

Context: This scene marks a turning point in the film, forcing Kumail to confront the depth of his feelings for Emily and the importance of their relationship.

Kumail's Struggle with Family Expectations

Kumail faces increasing pressure from his family to marry a Pakistani woman. In a heated moment with his parents, he reveals his desire to choose his own path, which leads to a visible rift in their relationship.

Context: This confrontation emphasizes Kumail's internal conflict as he balances love and duty, central to his character arc.

Kumail Meets Emily's Parents

Kumail meets Beth and Terry, Emily's parents, in a hospital. Tension fills the room as they navigate their mutual concerns for Emily while also feeling uncertain about each other’s backgrounds.

Context: This meeting is crucial as it brings two very different families together in a time of crisis, highlighting the themes of acceptance and love.

Beth Confronts Kumail

Beth confronts Kumail about his commitment to Emily. She expresses her distrust, forcing Kumail to reflect on his feelings and fears in a very raw emotional exchange, showcasing the theme of vulnerability.

Context: This scene deepens the audience's understanding of Kumail’s struggle to reconcile his heart with his familial and cultural obligations.

Kumail's Journey of Growth

Kumail spends nights at Emily's bedside, talking to her and recounting stories, showing his growth and commitment. His raw emotions speak to the audience as he learns to express his love amid uncertainty.

Context: This part of the film shows Kumail truly evolving, learning what it means to love someone deeply, and prioritizes their well-being over his fears.

The Proposal Scene

Kumail finally gathers the courage to propose to Emily after she wakes up from her coma. Their conversation is grounded in honesty, vulnerability, and newfound understanding of each other.

Context: This moment is a culmination of Kumail’s character development, as he realizes that true love means fighting for what you want despite societal pressures.

Emily's Comeback

As Emily begins to recover, her spirit shines through during interactions with Kumail and her parents. The hospital initially feels dark but transforms into a setting filled with hope and laughter.

Context: This shift symbolizes the healing process and the enduring strength of love, lending emotional weight to the film’s climax.

Kumail's Message to His Parents

Kumail finally writes a heartfelt letter to his parents, expressing his feelings and the importance of being true to oneself. He shares how he feels about Emily and how culture should not dictate happiness.

Context: This moment is pivotal, showcasing Kumail's journey toward self-acceptance, individuality, and love, reflecting broader themes of identity.

The Hospital Fight

Kumail and Beth have a heated argument in the hospital about their expectations and fears for Emily’s future. The intensity of this moment showcases their desperation as they grapple with Emil's condition.

Context: This confrontation of differing care perspectives highlights the stress and uncertainty of the situation, deepening emotional stakes.

Emily's Awakening

When Emily awakens from her coma, there’s a mix of relief and joy. Everyone around her experiences profound emotional responses as they observe her fight to regain her life.

Context: This moment drastically alters the narrative, transforming the previous despair into hope and renewal.

Kumail's Emotional Clarity

Kumail visits a therapist, revealing his internal struggles about love and identity. This interaction serves as a turning point in him coming to terms with his feelings for Emily.

Context: This exploration of his psyche connects with the film's deeper issues of cultural identity and personal fulfillment.

Emily's Family Bonds

As Emily reunites with her parents post-recovery, a touching scene plays out that emphasizes the importance of family support during trying times, showcasing the love between them.

Context: This moment sheds light on familial connections and the importance of solidarity amid adversity.

Kumail and Emily's Heartfelt Conversation

Kumail and Emily have a deep conversation about throwing away cultural expectations and valuing their love above all else. Their chemistry and sincerity create a poignant moment.

Context: This dialogue is key to exploring themes of personal choices and the resilience of love.

The Last Stand-Up Scene

Kumail returns to the stage, delivering a heartfelt stand-up routine about his experiences with Emily and his family. The balance of comedy and emotional weight resonates powerfully.

Context: This scene underscores Kumail's growth, showcasing how he uses humor to process pain, capturing the essence of his journey.

The Reunion Scene

The final reunion between Kumail and Emily showcases a maturity in their relationship. They share dreams and aspirations, highlighting their newfound understanding and connection.

Context: This resolution climaxes the film’s exploration of love across cultural divides and emphasizes the healing power of relationships.

The Family Acceptance

Kumail’s parents, experiencing their own growth, finally accept his relationship with Emily, which is represented in a moment of warmth and togetherness.

Context: This resolution highlights themes of acceptance and breaking generational gaps, concluding Kumail's journey of identity.

Flashback to Kumail's Comedy Roots

Throughout the film, flashbacks show Kumail's initial foray into comedy, illustrating his struggles and motivations. These memories add depth to his character.

Context: These moments emphasize Kumail's journey toward self-acceptance, paralleling his personal and career growth.

Emily's Therapy Session

A glimpse into Emily's therapy reveals her personal struggles and how her illness has affected her perspective. This moment allows for deeper character exploration.

Context: This insight strengthens the symbolic representation of recovery and resilience within the story.

The Final Embrace

As the film concludes, Kumail and Emily share a poignant embrace, embodying the film's message of hope, resilience, and love's triumph over adversity.

Context: This closing scene encapsulates their journey while highlighting overarching themes of healing and cultural acceptance.

The Goodbye Scene

Kumail says goodbye to Emily as she heads to a different city for a new job opportunity, a bittersweet moment filled with understanding and support.

Context: This scene reaffirms their love while highlighting personal growth and the importance of following one’s dreams, despite challenges.

Emily's Sass at the Dinner Table

Emily, during a dinner with Kumail's family, showcases her witty and fierce personality, breaking barriers and creating lighthearted moments amid cultural tension.

Context: This scene is significant for displaying the connections being built while highlighting the clashes between cultures in an entertaining way.


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Real-Life Inspiration for the Script

The screenplay for 'The Big Sick' was co-written by Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, based on their real-life courtship and the medical crisis Emily faced.

Why it matters: This personal connection adds authenticity to the story, making the emotional beats more relatable and impactful for audiences, enhancing the overall sincerity of the narrative.

Casting Change at the Last Minute

The role of Emily was initially intended for a different actress, but upon auditioning, Zoe Kazan's chemistry with Kumail Nanjiani solidified her position as the lead.

Why it matters: This pivotal casting decision contributed to the film's emotional authenticity, as the genuine connection between the actors shines through in their performances, lending more weight to their relationship on screen.

Kumail Nanjiani's Authenticity in Comedy

Kumail drew upon his own experiences as a stand-up comedian, incorporating his real-life routines into the film's narrative.

Why it matters: His real-life comedic timing and perspective contribute to the film's humor, making it resonate with audiences who appreciate the blend of comedy and heartfelt moments.

Emily's Coma Scene

The emotional scenes surrounding Emily's coma were meticulously shaped based on the real experiences Nanjiani and Gordon faced during her hospitalization.

Why it matters: The visceral nature of these scenes allows the audience to feel the gravity of the situation, heightening emotional engagement and illustrating the depth of both characters' love.

Cultural Representations

The film features authentic depictions of Pakistani culture, including family dynamics and traditions, complemented by the involvement of cultural consultants throughout production.

Why it matters: This careful representation aids in breaking down stereotypes and invites audiences to experience a realistic portrayal of cultural intersectionality, enriching the story's relatability.

Improvisation by Ray Romano and Holly Hunter

Ray Romano and Holly Hunter, who play Emily's parents, were allowed to improvise during some key scenes to enhance their chemistry and authenticity.

Why it matters: The improvisational moments contribute to the film's naturalistic dialogue and interactions, making the parental figures feel more relatable and memorable.

The Meaning Behind the Title

The title 'The Big Sick' reflects not only Emily's health crisis but also the complexities of relationships under stress.

Why it matters: This nuanced title sets an important tone for the film, indicating that love can flourish even in difficult times, creating a deeper thematic resonance with viewers.

Kumail's Actual Family

Kumail's real family appeared in the movie, enhancing authenticity in the familial interactions depicted throughout the narrative.

Why it matters: The inclusion of real family members gives a unique level of realism and emotional depth, bringing genuine familial warmth and conflict to the screen.

Collaborative Writing Process

The script underwent numerous revisions with contributions from both Kumail and Emily, reflecting their shared experiences and perspectives.

Why it matters: This collaboration ensures that the film maintains a balanced portrayal of both characters, enhancing relatability and allowing the audience to see through multiple lenses.

Medical Consultant Involvement

The production team hired medical consultants to ensure accurate depictions of hospital procedures and protocols during Emily's treatment.

Why it matters: This attention to detail enriches the viewer's understanding of the medical challenges faced, making the drama feel more tangible and credible.

Kumail's Transformation for the Role

Kumail Nanjiani underwent a significant physical transformation, gaining muscle for his role to reflect both a change in character and dedication to the story.

Why it matters: This transformation visually represents Kumail's character evolution, embodying his commitment to personal growth, which is a recurring theme in the film.

Filming Locations

Most of the film was shot in and around Atlanta, Georgia, which offered versatile locations that could represent Chicago, where the story is set.

Why it matters: Utilizing Atlanta not only cut costs but also provided unique backdrops, ultimately enhancing the film’s aesthetic while allowing for stunning visuals.

The Stand-Up Club Setting

The stand-up comedy club depicted in the film was inspired by the real-life 'The Comedy Bar' in Chicago, where Kumail Nanjiani honed his craft.

Why it matters: This authenticity in setting contributes to the film’s overall thematic coherence, grounding the comedy in Kumail's true life experiences and making the comedy relatable.

Cameo from Real Life Friends

Cameos from Nanjiani's real-life comedian friends, such as Bo Burnham and Aidy Bryant, were included to create a more authentic comedy atmosphere.

Why it matters: These familiar faces not only provide humor but also enhance the film's connection to the stand-up community, reinforcing the impact of comedy on real life.

Exploring Family Expectations

The film delves into the pressures of familial expectations, particularly in the context of arranged marriages within the Pakistani culture.

Why it matters: This thematic exploration adds depth to Kumail's character and relationships, allowing audiences to reflect on the complexities of love versus obligation.

Casting Mary Sue, the Dog

Mary Sue, Emily’s dog in the movie, was portrayed by an animal actor trained for specific cues, highlighting the bond between Emily and her pet.

Why it matters: The dog's presence enhances the emotional stakes in the film, serving as a relatable companion that deepens the audience's understanding of Emily’s character and her vulnerability.

Health Crisis Timing

Emily's health crises in the film were dramatized but mirrored real-life timelines of the events that transpired during her actual illness.

Why it matters:

Cultural Clash Humor

The film skillfully weaves humor from cultural misunderstandings, particularly in interactions between Kumail and his family.

Why it matters:

Philosophical Discussions

The film explores deeper themes of mortality and philosophical musings, adding layers to both Kumail and Emily's characters.

Why it matters:

On-Set Dynamics

Kumail Nanjiani often held rehearsal dinners with the cast to foster a comfortable environment, leading to a more relaxed on-set dynamic.

Why it matters:

Collaboration with Judd Apatow

Producer Judd Apatow's involvement significantly shaped the film's comedic elements, making the humor sharper and more contemporary.

Why it matters:

Audience Reactions at Festivals

The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received an overwhelmingly positive response, leading to a bidding war over distribution rights.

Why it matters:

Final Cut Adjustments

Post-production saw significant work in editing to enhance pacing, particularly in comedic and dramatic moments, ensuring the film held a tight narrative arc.

Why it matters:

Soundtrack Curations

The film's soundtrack plays a crucial role in emphasizing the emotional tone, with song selections carefully chosen to align with key scenes.

Why it matters:


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