The Big Sick Blu-ray Review

"The Big Sick" on Blu-ray, courtesy of Lionsgate Films, delivers a stellar 1080p AVC encoded transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio that is a visual treat. Shot digitally, likely using an Arri camera setup, the film presents a crisp and clean image devoid of film grain, resulting in a detailed and film-like lushness. The neutral color grading ensures a natural palette throughout the film, with some scenes exhibiting a cool, wintry quality. The darkly lit comedy club environments slightly obscure fine detail levels, but this is countered by the hospital scenes showcasing crisp details and impressive clarity. Overall, the contrast and clarity are superb, with closely shot scenes revealing facial hairs, creases, and blemishes effectively.

Contrasts are stable with deeply saturated colors that pop off the screen. Blacks are rich and well-handled, providing significant depth to darker scenes without losing detail or suffering from any grayish tones. Shadow delineation is managed quite well, maintaining integrity in low-light settings, and ensuring visual perspective is maintained in darker areas. Brightly lit sequences and natural flesh tones are presented accurately, enabling a balanced and immersive viewing experience. Additionally, there are no compression anomalies or digital imperfections such as banding or crush detected, confirming the transfer’s pristine quality. While the presentation might not stand out as being extraordinarily unique, it competently supports the film’s narrative and setting, making for a highly engaging videographic experience in the rom-com genre.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track on the Blu-ray of "The Big Sick" provides an impressive auditory experience that surpasses expectations for a romantic comedy. Dialogue remains at the forefront, firmly anchored in the center channel with excellent clarity and tonal balance, facilitating easy comprehension of all spoken words. Additionally, subtle nuances within the recording are discernibly captured, thanks to the track's rich dynamic range and detailed clarity. While low-frequency effects are not particularly prominent, the subwoofer harmonizes well with the rest of the audio system, complementing the music score and soundtrack with appropriate low-level bass.

The track also demonstrates a commendable level of directional variance and channel separation, which enhances the overall listening experience. The club scenes stand out, offering an immersive audio environment where crowd noises spill through side and rear channels, creating a lively atmosphere. Even in more reserved dialogue-driven scenes, the track maintains engaging soundscapes with source cues that inject sonic energy and surround activity. Though rear channel engagement is subtle, it contributes to a broader sense of atmosphere, and front speaker stereo separation effectively widens the soundstage. The music score by Michael Andrews, along with other isolated songs, fills the room dynamically without distortion, ensuring a well-rounded auditory presentation.

For a genre that typically features less ambitious audio tracks, "The Big Sick" manages to provide an engaging and atmospherically rich listening experience. Surround sound presentation maintains a fine balance, with ambient sounds and environmental audio enriching scenes effectively. The majority of audio plays through the center and front channels, while rear channels offer additional support, particularly in busy scenes. Overall, this DTS-HD MA 5.1 track impressively enhances the film’s narrative through a solid sound design characterized by clear dialogue reproduction, detailed dynamics, and expansive aural interest.

The Blu-ray release of "The Big Sick" offers an excellent array of extras that enhance the understanding and appreciation of the film. The selection is deeply engaging, featuring insightful commentary from Kumail Nanjiani, Emily V. Gordon, producer Barry Mendel, and director Michael Showalter. Despite minor instances where the commentary becomes hard to follow due to overlapping dialogue, it remains a treasure trove for enthusiasts. The featurettes are particularly valuable, providing behind-the-scenes looks and personal anecdotes which illustrate the film's heartfelt journey from real-life events to a cinematic story. The inclusion of a deleted scenes segment and a lively blooper reel adds further enjoyment, making this Blu-ray package both comprehensive and entertaining.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Personal Journey: The Making of The Big Sick: Engaging featurette with fun interviews.
• The Real Story: Kumail and Emily discuss their real-life rocky romance.
• 2017 SXSW Film Festival Panel: Q&A with the filmmakers and producers.
• Cast & Filmmaker Commentary: Lively discussion recorded post-premiere.
• The Big Sick: The Other Stuff: Mix of outtakes and gag reel.
• Deleted Scenes: Amusing moments that lighten the movie's mood.
• The Bigger Sick: Stick Around for More Laughs: Documentary of the film's promotional comedy tour.

"The Big Sick" is an unexpected gem, artfully blending humor with heartfelt moments, based largely on Kumail Nanjiani’s real-life romance with Emily V. Gordon. Nanjiani, playing himself, is an aspiring comedian and Uber driver grappling with his Pakistani family's traditional expectations while navigating a burgeoning relationship with Emily (Zoe Kazan). Their romance endures numerous challenges, including cultural clashes and Emily's sudden, severe illness that leads her to a medically induced coma.

The film skillfully uses Emily's health crisis not just for drama but as a springboard to explore themes of family, culture, and personal growth. Kumail's interactions with Emily’s parents, portrayed brilliantly by Holly Hunter and Ray Romano, add layers of tension, humor, and ultimately redemption. Their complex dynamic provides both touching and comical moments amidst the gravitas of the situation.

Director Michael Showalter, along with producers Judd Apatow and Barry Mendel, ensures "The Big Sick" remains grounded in reality without becoming overly sentimental. The cast's performances are universally stellar, with Nanjiani’s first leading role standing out for its charm and relatability. The film also subtly yet effectively addresses the immigrant experience, offering a nuanced perspective on assimilation and cultural identity. This blend of sharp, authentic writing and genuine performances results in a film that resonates deeply while managing to elicit both laughter and tears.

"The Big Sick" is a remarkable standout in the romantic comedy genre. Directed by Michael Showalter and starring Kumail Nanjiani and Zoe Kazan, this film skillfully blends humor with the poignant complexities of a cross-cultural relationship amidst a medical crisis. Nanjiani and co-writer Emily V. Gordon's screenplay shines with authenticity, offering both substantial laughs and heartfelt moments devoid of contrivance. The performances, especially by Holly Hunter and Ray Romano, elevate the narrative, making it as endearing as it is incisive about family and cultural dynamics.

The Blu-ray presentation from Lionsgate is exceptional. The 1.85:1 aspect ratio offers a sharp and detailed visual experience, while the English DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track ensures clear dialogue and immersive soundscapes. The addition of Spanish DD 5.1 caters to a broader audience. Notably, the technical aspects support the emotional and comedic beats of the film seamlessly. The runtime of 119 minutes feels just right, as the pacing of the movie keeps the viewer engaged throughout without overstaying its welcome.

In conclusion, "The Big Sick" is unequivocally one of the best non-blockbuster films of the year. Its blend of humor, romance, and earnest storytelling distinguishes it from typical rom-com fare. The Blu-ray’s stellar video and audio quality make it a highly recommended purchase for any collection. Whether you're in for a hearty laugh or a heartfelt story, this film delivers on all fronts. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a refreshing and genuine romantic comedy.