Review of Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2012) by Rebeccah R — 06 Aug 2013

The odd title is attention grabbing isn't it? It says exactly what the film is about though. A wealthy Sheikh wants to bring salmon from Great Britain into Yemen to introduce the sport of salmon fishing to his country. It is a massive project, costing 50 million pounds. British fisheries expert Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), thinks the project is nearly impossible and a massive waste of time. He is forced to work on it, though, by the Prime Minister's press secretary, who is desperate for a good story about Anglo-Yemeni relations. The Sheikh's determined representative Harriet Chetwode-Talbot (Emily Blunt), refuses to accept failure on the project.

Alfred and Harriet are forced to work together on the project. Eventually, Harriet's optimistic attitude begins to erode at Alfred's skepticism about the project. Both become heavily invested in the project. Alfred is having serious trouble with his marriage. Harriet's boyfriend is MIA in Afghanistan. The two of them rely on each other and the project for support. Over time, of course, they fall in love.

This film succeeds largely due to the immense likability and charm of Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor. They are extraordinarily easy to cheer for. We become invested in their relationship over the course of the film. Both their relationship and the salmon project have long odds, but a resounding message of the film is hope against all odds. The viewer, in turn, hopes for a desirable outcome for all involved.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is an extremely pleasant feel-good movie. It emphasizes ideals of hope, faith, and love. The cynics out there will probably hate it, but for idealists like me, it is a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.