What movies has kumail nanjiani been in?

By HotBotUpdated: June 20, 2024

Answer

Kumail Nanjiani: An Overview of His Filmography

Kumail Nanjiani, a Pakistani-American actor, comedian, and writer, has made a significant impact in both television and film. His unique talent and diverse range have allowed him to take on a variety of roles, from comedic to dramatic. This article provides a detailed look at the movies Kumail Nanjiani has been in, including some lesser-known appearances that showcase his versatility.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Before achieving mainstream success, Kumail Nanjiani honed his craft in smaller roles and independent films. Here are some notable entries from his early career:

Life As We Know It (2010)

In this romantic comedy, Kumail Nanjiani had a minor role as a recurring character. While the film is centered around the main characters played by Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel, Nanjiani's performance added a touch of humor and depth.

The Five-Year Engagement (2012)

Nanjiani played the role of a supporting character in this romantic comedy directed by Nicholas Stoller. He was part of an ensemble cast that included Jason Segel and Emily Blunt. While his role was not central to the plot, his comedic timing shone through.

Breakout Role: The Big Sick (2017)

Kumail Nanjiani's breakthrough came with the semi-autobiographical film "The Big Sick," which he co-wrote with his wife, Emily V. Gordon. The film, directed by Michael Showalter, is based on the real-life story of their relationship.

The Big Sick (2017)

In "The Big Sick," Nanjiani plays a version of himself, navigating the complexities of an interracial relationship while dealing with his family’s traditional expectations. The film received critical acclaim and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Nanjiani's performance was widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.

Expanding Horizons: Diverse Roles

After the success of "The Big Sick," Nanjiani began to explore more diverse roles, showcasing his ability to handle a wide range of genres.

Stuber (2019)

In this action-comedy, Nanjiani stars alongside Dave Bautista. He plays an Uber driver who gets roped into a wild night of crime-fighting. The chemistry between Nanjiani and Bautista provides a mix of humor and action, making "Stuber" an entertaining ride.

Men in Black: International (2019)

Nanjiani lent his voice to the character of Pawny, a small alien who becomes an ally to the main characters played by Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson. His voice acting added a layer of charm and wit to the film.

The Lovebirds (2020)

Reuniting with his "The Big Sick" director Michael Showalter, Nanjiani stars opposite Issa Rae in this romantic comedy. The film follows a couple who, on the brink of breaking up, get entangled in a murder mystery. Nanjiani's comedic prowess and chemistry with Rae drive the film's narrative.

Venturing into the Marvel Universe

Nanjiani's career took another significant turn when he joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), showcasing his ability to transition into blockbuster territory.

Eternals (2021)

In "Eternals," directed by Chloé Zhao, Nanjiani plays Kingo, a member of an immortal alien race. To prepare for the role, Nanjiani underwent a significant physical transformation, which garnered much attention on social media. His portrayal of Kingo added both humor and depth to the ensemble cast, contributing to the film's exploration of complex themes.

Animated and Voice Work

Nanjiani has also made notable contributions to animated films and voice acting, lending his distinctive voice to a variety of characters.

The Lego Ninjago Movie (2017)

In this animated film, Nanjiani voices Jay, one of the ninja warriors. His voice work brings a playful and energetic quality to the character, making it a standout in the ensemble cast.

Dolittle (2020)

Nanjiani voices the character of Plimpton, an ostrich, in this fantasy adventure film starring Robert Downey Jr. His comedic delivery adds levity to the film’s whimsical narrative.

Independent and Lesser-Known Films

Beyond mainstream success, Nanjiani has appeared in several independent and lesser-known films that highlight his versatility as an actor.

Goosebumps (2015)

Nanjiani had a small but memorable role in this family-friendly horror-comedy based on the popular book series by R.L. Stine. His character, a skeptical police officer, provided comic relief.

Brother Nature (2016)

In this comedy, Nanjiani played the role of Riggleman, adding his unique comedic touch to the ensemble cast, which included Taran Killam and Bobby Moynihan.

Upcoming Projects

As of the latest updates, Nanjiani continues to expand his filmography with exciting upcoming projects. His commitment to diverse roles and storytelling ensures that audiences can look forward to more memorable performances.

Any Day Now

Set to be directed by Hamy Ramezan, this film will explore themes of immigration and belonging. Nanjiani's role in this project further exemplifies his dedication to meaningful storytelling.

Untitled Chippendales Project

Nanjiani is slated to star in a project based on the true story of the Chippendales founder, Somen "Steve" Banerjee. This role promises to be another intriguing addition to his diverse body of work.

From his early days in minor roles to his current status as a prominent actor in Hollywood, Kumail Nanjiani's filmography is a testament to his talent and versatility. His journey through various genres and platforms showcases a career that continues to evolve, promising even more compelling performances in the future.