Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (Lasse Hallström, 2011): USA

Reviewed by Matilda Frid. Viewed at Santa Barbara Film Festival.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is about a rich sheikh that wants to introduce salmon fishing to the Middle East. In order to do this a big process starts taking place that involves many different people. The sheikhs consultant Harriet (Emily Blunt) gets the reluctant fish expert Fred (Ewan McGregor) on board very soon in the beginning. We get to follow their journey to make a man’s dream come true. It’s simply about very different people coming together for an unlikely cause.

Absolutely wonderful acting and chemistry between the actors. I loved the dialogue which was witty and smart. The dialogue between all of the characters I think is what made this movie what it is.

Lots of funny moments. I especially thought it was funny how they showed online conversations between Kristin Scott Thomas’ character Bridget Maxwell and politicians. Her character, who was constantly trying to get a good story, was the funniest of them all.

Made by the director Lasse Hallström, who is the behind such films as “The Cider House Rules” or “Dear John”.

Originally from the book with the same name, by the author Paul Torday. This was his debut novel and it won two awards.

Nothing that lasts in your mind for a long time, but good feel-good entertainment. It’s a charming and inspiring movie about fish and faith.