Sandy Kenyon review: 'The Big Sick'

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Now opening in theaters nationwide, "The Big Sick" tells the true story of a standup comedian and grad student, and how a coma led to love and marriage for real.

This romantic comedy has earned some of the best reviews of the summer, and in terms of feel-good films, "The Big Sick" is near the top of my list for the year so far.

"Authentic" is a word that comes to mind when talking about the rom-com, based on the true story of the husband and wife who wrote it.

Kamail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon have been together for a decade now, but their original story makes for a funny movie.

Zoe Kazan is so charming that when they get together that same night, you root for them to stay together.

Trouble is, Kamail is expected to choose a Pakistani bride from among the many eligible women selected by his mother.

He rejects each one and places their pictures in a box without telling his true love who is not happy when she discovers the photos.

His uncertainty leads to their breakup, then suddenly there's no chance for them to make up.

Enter her parents, played by Ray Romano and Holly Hunter.

He sticks around to mine the culture clash for laughs while coming to realize how much he loves Emily.

I sure missed her in the middle of the "The Big Sick" when she's out cold.

I would have preferred more light shed on the subject. An 8-year-old with a cell phone could have shot this murky movie better, but even the bargain basement presentation can't spoil its solid gold heart.

"The Big Sick" opened in limited release last month after creating a stir at the Sundance Film Festival back in January. Starting Friday, it is in theaters everywhere. It's too long and poorly made, but so warm and wonderful I'm going to recommend it.