LOS ANGELES - Bollywood actor Anupam Kher says he saw Hollywood’s "The Big Sick" as an opportunity to broaden his horizon as an actor after having worked with the likes of Woody Allen and Robert De Niro.

Directed by Michael Showalter, "The Big Sick" is about the real life story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani, who not just features in the lead role but has also penned the film’s screenplay with wife Emily Gordon.

“I loved the idea. Though I had never seen his work, I immediately warmed up to Kumail Nanjiani. And when I got to know I’d get to work with American legends like Holly Hunter and Ray Romano, I felt it was one more opportunity to broaden my horizon as an actor, having worked earlier with the likes of Woody Allen, Ang Lee and Robert de Niro,” Anupam said.

“'The Big Sick' is a very important film. It talks about racism, xenophobia, cultural isolation and the way Muslims are regarded with suspicion and distrust. And it deals with such serious issues with warmth and laughter. I love it,” the "Dil" star said.

Anupam got the role of Nanjiani’s father because Nanjiani’s real father was keen on the actor.

“Kumail asked his father whom he would like to play him. Apparently, Kumail’s father said my name without a second thought. But Kumail didn’t know how to get in touch with me and there was no time. The shooting was about to begin. Luckily, they got in touch with me through a relative of mine,” he added. - Agencies