A rom-com that brings big laughs and big tears while tackling big issues is a rarity, but Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon manage to pull it off with little or no problem.

It’s hard to find a comedy that can have as many heartfelt moments as it has jokes, but “The Big Sick” does just that. Based on a true story, the film tackles not only the hardships of a mixed-race relationship, but also the difficulties of commitment, passion, and love all the while making you laugh with a smart style of comedy that is not over done and feels fresh.

Written Nanjiani and Gordon, the film follows a Pakistani born aspiring comedian named Kumail, played by Nanjiani, who falls in love with a grad student named Emily, played by Zoe Kazan. The film is directed by Michael Showalter and produced by Judd Apatow.

The film finds Nanjiani’s character facing a big decision between pleasing his parents by marrying someone from his own race and religion, or following his feelings and going for the woman he fell in love with, all the while trying to start a career as a comedian.

The film’s plot twist occurs when Emily falls ill from a mysterious condition that tests Kumail’s commitment and love for her, while at the same time trying to keep a good relationship with his own very traditional family.

With a strong supporting cast of lesser-known actors and well-known actors like Ray Romano and Holly Hunter, there is no surprise that the movie has been well received in several film festivals and is acclaimed by audiences and critics alike.

“The Big Sick” tackles not only issues of love and family, but also bring to light how first-generation immigrants are trying to keep their parents’ culture while simultaneously trying to adapt to an American culture that they feel is their own. It will have you laughing most of the time, and when you’re not laughing you will be holding back your tears from the powerful emotions that are portrayed in the movie.