The Big Sick

The Big Sick

Year: 2017

Runtime: 120 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Showalter

DramaComedyRomance

A Pakistani comedian, Kumail Nanjiani, experiences a surprising turn of events when he meets Emily, a graduate student. Their budding romance is complicated by Kumail’s traditional Muslim family and their expectations. As their relationship deepens, Emily’s sudden illness forces Kumail to confront cultural differences and family pressures while supporting her through a difficult time.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Big Sick (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Big Sick (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in contemporary times, showcasing modern relationships and the effects of cultural expectations. It addresses the present-day challenges faced by individuals in a multicultural environment.

Location

Chicago

Chicago is known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse culture. It serves as the backdrop for Kumail's journey, offering a contrasting landscape of comedy and family dynamics. The city's rich history and unique neighborhoods reflect the intersection of various lifestyles and traditions.

🏙️ City 🌍 Multicultural

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:58

Main Characters – The Big Sick (2017)

Meet the key characters of The Big Sick (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail is a stand-up comedian who struggles with balancing his cultural heritage and personal aspirations. His humor often masks deeper insecurities, especially when navigating his family's expectations about marriage. He evolves significantly throughout the movie, ultimately confronting his fears in a journey of self-acceptance.

🎤 Comedian 💖 Romantic 🤝 Self-discovery

Emily Gardner

Emily is a spirited and independent woman whose relationship with Kumail challenges traditional norms. She represents modern love, facing complexities that arise from cultural differences and personal authenticity. Her journey reveals her strength and vulnerability while navigating her feelings for Kumail amidst adversity.

❤️ Independent 😔 Vulnerable 🌟 Strong

Beth

Beth is Emily's mother, initially skeptical of Kumail due to cultural differences and her daughter's well-being. Throughout the film, she experiences a shift as she sees Kumail's love and devotion towards Emily, showcasing her journey from distrust to acceptance.

👩‍👧 Protective 🔍 Skeptical ❤️ Accepting

Terry

Terry, Emily's father, has a more laid-back demeanor compared to his wife, providing a counterbalance to Beth's skepticism. His character brings a humorous and relatable perspective on fatherhood, ultimately showing support for Kumail as he navigates his daughter's relationship.

👨‍👧 Supportive 😂 Humorous 🕴️ Relatable

Naveed

Naveed is Kumail's brother who adds another layer of familial complexity. His character often reflects traditional expectations, showcasing the generational differences in their approach to relationships and cultural practices.

👨‍👦 Loyal 📜 Traditional 🤔 Reflective

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:58

Major Themes – The Big Sick (2017)

Explore the central themes of The Big Sick (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love & Identity

The theme of love is intricately woven with personal identity, as Kumail navigates his relationship with Emily amidst familial expectations. Their romance is tested by cultural conflicts and personal insecurities, revealing how love can lead to self-discovery and growth.

🎭 Comedy & Tragedy

The film beautifully juxtaposes comedy with poignant moments of tragedy, showing how humor can be a coping mechanism during life's toughest challenges. It explores the healing power of laughter in the face of emotional turmoil and the life of a comedian.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family Dynamics

Family plays a central role in Kumail's life, reflecting the tension between individual desires and familial expectations. Cultural traditions create pressure that complicates his romantic relationship, emphasizing the challenges faced by those straddling two worlds.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:58

Unlock the Full Story of The Big Sick

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Big Sick in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Big Sick is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Big Sick Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Big Sick, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Big Sick Summary

The Big Sick Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Big Sick with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Big Sick Timeline

More About The Big Sick

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Big Sick: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Big Sick

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