Kumail Nanjiani Reveals the Film That Shaped His Comedy
Kumail Nanjiani shares how a classic British rom-com inspired his comedy career, reflecting on its lasting impact and the charm that keeps him coming back.
Fans of Taskmaster are buzzing after the announcement of the line-up for the show’s 21st season. Even those who haven’t tuned in for a while are taking notice, with names like Armando Ianucci and Joanna Page on the bill. But the real standout for many is Kumail Nanjiani, the comedian and actor who’s made a name for himself in the States and beyond.
Nanjiani’s journey has taken him from performing stand-up in New York to starring in the hit series Silicon Valley, and even co-writing and acting in the Oscar-nominated film The Big Sick. That success opened doors to bigger projects, including a role in the Men in Black franchise and leading Jordan Peele’s reboot of The Twilight Zone. His biggest gig yet came with Marvel’s Eternals in 2021, a film that was tipped to launch a new franchise. Despite a strong box office showing, the film didn’t land well with critics, and Nanjiani later admitted the backlash took a toll on him, leading him to seek therapy. Still, he’s kept busy, popping up in Disney’s Star Wars spin-off Obi Wan Kenobi alongside Ewan McGregor.
Returning to Stand-Up and Finding Inspiration
More recently, Nanjiani has returned to his roots in stand-up, earning praise for his TV special Night Thoughts. What’s interesting is where he first found the spark to get on stage. Growing up in Karachi before moving to the US at 18, his inspiration came from a very British place: Richard Curtis’ 1994 romantic comedy Four Weddings and a Funeral.
He’s spoken about how Hugh Grant’s character in the film, especially during the best man’s speech, struck him as someone doing a long stand-up set. Nanjiani said he wished he could have a job just giving wedding speeches all day, and stand-up seemed the next best thing. The film’s blend of wit and warmth left a lasting impression on him.
A Favourite That Stands the Test of Time
When asked to name his all-time favourite, Nanjiani didn’t hesitate.
“I would say Four Weddings and a Funeral, just because I have seen it the most times, and I just love it every time. It’s so funny and charming, and everybody’s great in it. It just looks good. It just feels good. I’d be lying if I put any other movie on top, because that’s the movie I’ve seen the most.”
The film was a sensation when it came out in the early ‘90s, launching Hugh Grant into stardom and setting Richard Curtis on a path to write more hits like Love Actually and Notting Hill. For Nanjiani, it’s the film’s humour and heart that keep him coming back, and he credits it with shaping his own approach to comedy.
New Projects and Ongoing Success
Outside of Taskmaster, Nanjiani has been busy with other projects, including a role in the popular Fallout series and a new spin-off in the Insidious universe called Thread, where he stars opposite Mandy Moore. The story follows a couple who travel back in time to save their daughter, only to find things go sideways thanks to an ancient spell.
Through all the ups and downs of his career, Nanjiani’s admiration for Four Weddings and a Funeral has remained a constant, serving as both comfort and inspiration as he continues to take on new challenges in comedy and beyond.