Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

I haven't reviewed a film in a while, have I? Actually, I haven't even watched a lot lately either...

Of course I've been to the cinema to see Star Wars - Star Wars: Episode 1 was my first grown-up film I saw in the cinema in 1999, hence how could I not go and see the new one and I loved it. But there's so many reviews of The Force Awakens out there, I didn't want to add one more.

One of the only other feature films I've watched throughout this holiday season was Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.

I've never seen the film before, but it has been on my Watchlist nearly since it was in cinemas in 2011. And now I'm glad I finally watched it, because it was really good.

The film directed by Lasse Hallström (Chocolat, Casanova) is about, well, salmon fishing in the Yemen. But it's not as boring as it sounds, seriously. I first thought it's about people going fishing, but it's about much more.

The head of the Yemen, Sheikh Muhammed bin Zaidi bani Tihama is an avid fisherman and wants to bring fly-fishing to the desert of his country.

As the British government is on the search for a positive news story from the middle east, they employ Miss Harriet Chetwode-Talbot (Emily Blunt) to help the sheikh with his project. On the search for a fishing expert she recruits very nerdy Dr. Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), who's working for the British Department of Fisheries and Agriculture, for the project.
Together they face the troubles of making the Yemen desert habitable for Salmon and pleasing the sheikh and the British government.

And let me tell you: it is a story full of trouble, drama but also some fun. There's a lot of other stories woven into the main story I summarised for you as well and that's what makes the film interesting and likewise emotional. I also liked how the characters evolved during the film and how nicely written and played all the dialogues are.

I also enjoyed the different view on the middle East - it's not a story on terrorism, war and cruelty, it's a touching, fascinating and funny story about people who want to make their dreams come true. It's a humorous story about fishing, faith and science.

Why is it missing out on the fifth heart in my rating then, you're asking? Well, I've got to admit it's got some lengths and is a bit confusing from time to time, which slightly annoyed me.

But it's for sure a very good film, with a well-written enjoyable storyline, great characters and amazing actors. And some lovely views on the Yemen landscape as well. Watch it, if you haven't yet.

If you've seen the film already, let me know what you thought of it. I'd love to hear from you.

Love
Julia x

PS: You can get the DVD from Amazon, your local reseller or stream it on Netflix.