The Big Day (1999)

The Big Day Poster

While trying to make amends, Zack sends his soon-to-be-married brother, John fleeing on his wedding day, all while his bride, Sara, is anxiously awaiting him.

Overview
"The Big Day" is a 1999 British comedy-drama film directed by Dawn Wilkinson and centers around the themes of familial responsibilities, societal expectations, and the altering face of relationships. The script was composed by award-winning writer Ben Drew. The film stars Neha Desai, Roland Manookian, and Stacha Hicks, among others. Set in suburban London, "The Big Day" illustrates the chaotic and comical incidents that take place throughout preparations for a wedding.

Plot
The motion picture focuses on a dynamic and amazing Indian-British household getting ready for the wedding event of their oldest daughter. Neha Desai plays the character of the bride-to-be, who, in the middle of all the excitement and turmoil, is having reservations about the marriage. Her apprehensions stem from the social and cultural pressures that come with marital relationship, plus her sensations for another guy, her old flame.

The narrative unfolds by highlighting the different pre-wedding rituals, paired with a web of disputes and humor. Concurrently, the film also explores the lives of different relative, with their individual dilemmas, secrets, and problems, supplying a dynamic, multi-faceted backdrop to the primary wedding event plot.

Characters and Performances
The characters in the movie are well-fashioned and relatable, consequently invoking much deeper interest in the audience. The performances of the actors enhance the general appeal of the film. Neha Desai magnificently depicts the emotions of a bride-to-be dealing with an emotional chaos. Roland Manookian plays a charming individual assisting the families with the wedding preparations, unwittingly causing more turmoil. The rest of the cast provides compelling performances, authentically depicting the characteristics of a big, perky household.

State of mind and Aesthetic
"The Big Day" magnificently records the vibrancy, colorfulness and cultural richness of an Indian wedding. The cinematography, artwork and direction artfully illustrate the blend of Indian tradition with British way of life along with the psychological intricacies that emerge amidst the celebrations. The chaotic candidness of the setting is juxtaposed with tender minutes, uncovering the multiple layers of the characters.

Styles
The film incorporates a broad series of themes consisting of household, love, obligation, social pressures, and the balancing act between personal happiness and societal expectations. "The Big Day" highlights the value of choosing individual joy over social and familial pressures, represented through the bride's decision in the climax.

Conclusion
"The Big Day" is more than simply a comical wedding event story. Behind its light-hearted outside, it features deeper social discourses, cultural expectations, familial bonds, and the struggle of a specific in search of personal happiness amidst these pressures. The movie strikes home with the audience through its vibrant performances, compelling characters, funny discussion, and the poignant message dramatized through the essence of an Indian wedding event. Despite all its drama, the film maintains the message that in the end, one's joy is a personal option and should be a priority over societal norms and conventions.

Top Cast

  • Julianna Margulies (small)
    Julianna Margulies
    Sara
  • Ivan Sergei (small)
    Ivan Sergei
    John
  • Clayton Rohner (small)
    Clayton Rohner
    Zack
  • Andy Buckley (small)
    Andy Buckley
    Eddie
  • Dixie Carter (small)
    Dixie Carter
    Carol
  • Kevin Tighe (small)
    Kevin Tighe
    Joe
  • Nancy Banks
    Annie
  • Tom Virtue (small)
    Tom Virtue
    Tom
  • Kathleen York (small)
    Kathleen York
    Pamela
  • Barry Tubb (small)
    Barry Tubb
    Tuff
  • Daniel Hansen
    Joey