Amazon Studios has landed Sundance breakout “The Big Sick” in a $12 million dollar deal, TheWrap has learned.
Considered one of the most commercial films at this year’s festival, the deal for “The Big Sick” was brokered late Saturday night. Other bidders included Sony, Focus Features and Netflix.
Director Michael Showalter’s indie is based on the real-life courtship between Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, who co-wrote the film. “The Big Sick” tells the story of Pakistan-born aspiring comedian Kumail (played by Nanjiani himself), who connects with grad student Emily (Zoe Kazan) after one of his standup sets.
However, what they thought would be just a one-night stand blossoms into the real thing, which complicates the life that is expected of Kumail by his traditional Muslim parents.
When Emily is beset with a mystery illness, it forces Kumail to navigate the medical crisis with her parents, Beth and Terry (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano) who he’s never met, while dealing with the emotional tug-of-war between his family and his heart.
“The Big Sick” was directed by Michael Showalter. Judd Apatow and Barry Mendel produced. The film also co-stars Bo Burnham, Aidy Bryant, and Kurt Braunohler.
The deal was negotiated by UTA Independent Film Group