Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen revolves around the vision of a sheikh (Amr Waked) who wishes to use his love for salmon fishing as a means to enrich the lives of his local people. Dead set on making his dream a reality, he contacts Harriet Chetwode-Talbot (Emily Blunt), his representative, and asks her to do the necessary, at whatever price, to make his dream a reality. She seeks the help of the British governments leading fisheries expert, Dr. Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), who unwilling joins what he considers to be one big joke. Things get even more complicated when Bridget Maxwell (Kristin Scott Thomas), the Prime Minister’s press secretary, makes the whole project a “goodwill” opportunity, to create a positive vibe between the Middle East and the British. Armed with nothing more than faith and a whole lot of fish, this team sets out to do what Dr. Jones considers to be “theoretically” possible.
When you are presented with a film that is based around fishing, of all sports, you become a bit skeptical about the whole thing. Its a big risk choosing such a niche subject and trying to make a film that appeals to everybody. However, with Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, it is a risk that has paid off. Whether your interested in fishing or not, this movie will have elements that you will absolutely fall in love with. Simon Beaufoy has done a magical job in adapting Paul Torday’s book. He has definitely kept the the heart and soul of Torday’s story in his screenplay, mixing together witty dialogue and great conversations. With this being comedy-drama, comedy has not been overused or misused. It is used as an element to enhance the story as a whole and the characters involved. Certain comedic instances may not particularly be required, but they don’t take away any value from the film. After having a go at reading the synopsis, you’d expect a film of this nature to be very cheesy. Its not at all. What Hallström does very well is use fishing not as a subject of discussion but rather a central common ground between the characters. Each character is taken down a different path towards the same goal and seeing that blossom on screen is truly amazing to watch. Sophisticated dialogue and great story transitions make the most of every moment.
There are a few patches in the film when it comes to the overall story that definitely could have been improved. However, these are pretty hard to notice primarily because of the brilliant performances showcased by the cast. In fact, it is the highlight of the entire film. Ewan McGregor digs deep and showcases his Scottish side, illuminating the character of Dr. Alfred Jones. You are introduced to this sophisticated man who just intrigues you at every stage of the film. Emily Blunt brings to life the very professional and self-contained Harriet Chetwode-Talbot while adding her on-screen cuteness that just makes her character adorable. However, if we are to talk about characters, Kristin Scott Thomas’s performance as Patricia Maxwell is just mind blowing. Her fast-paced, unrestricted dialogue adds that extra oomph to the story line that just makes for an interesting character on screen. When you think about a government press person, you do get the impression that they are going to be a bit aggressive, a bit over the top and Scott Thomas delivers that in her character. Kudo’s to the crew for selecting a brilliant cast!
What Salmon Fishing in the Yemen does quite well is add a different dimension to a rather niche subject, putting together amazing film elements and an outstanding cast, to create a truly pleasant movie to watch. The story may not be for everyone but simply watching the cast perform is worth every moment.
Ewan McGregor & Emily Blunt. Frankly, it doesn’t take much more to convince one to head off to the theater. Both McGregor and Blunt co-star in Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, a new British comedy-drama directed by Swedish director Lasse Hallström. The screenplay, written by Slumdog Millionaire screenwriter Simon Beaufoy, is based around Paul Torday’s book of the same name, which won the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for comic writing in 2007 and the Waverton Good Read Award in 2008.