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The Big Sick



     I recently saw the movie The Big Sick (2017) where comedian Kumail Nanjiani portrays himself within his own true story of falling in love with a woman named Emily (Zoe Kazan). This film delves into some of the cultural differences and values held by his family in contrast to his girlfriend's family as it explores family dynamics, expectations, and cultural practices. 
      Kumail's parents have a different parenting style than Emily's, and are incredibly involved with his life. While they initially show a lot of warmth towards their children, they also are very firm when it comes to parental obedience. This is shown through frequent family dinners, as well as the family bringing several Pakistani women to their home as they encourage Kumail to engage in their culture's tradition of arranged marriage. Emily's parents, conversely, live across the country and there is definitely more focus on independence, rather than collectivism. However, since both characters are adults, we may not have a comprehensive look at the parenting styles utilized, which I imagine can greatly shift as their children become adults. 
     Kumail avoids introducing his girlfriend to his family and eventually breaks up with Emily, as he worries he will lose his family if he doesn't abide with his family's cultural traditions, even though he knows he loves her. Shortly after this Emily becomes very sick and is placed in a medically induced coma. During her stay, he becomes acquainted with her parents, who make some remarks that would fall into the category of microagressions. This is addressed within the film, and later on Emily's parents (her mother especially) refuse to stay silent when a member of the crowd at one Kumail's comedy shows makes an incredibly racist remark.  
     After visiting Emily in the hospital every day, Nanjiani has a discussion with his parents that leads to an argument, as they believe he should only marry someone they have picked for him. This practice is not common within mainstream United States culture, and I am sure this aspect of the movie was something new for many viewers. It was especially important for me to think about my own personal worldview and how that has been shaped by my experiences throughout this movie, especially as I thought about comments I have heard people make on cultural practices like arranged marriage.
      The Big Sick was a great film in the way it navigated culture and love through the use of humor. This film was also another reminder of how important it is to have representation in media and give a platform for people of color to share their lived experiences as Hollywood is an incredibly white-dominated industry.

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