Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), a in fisheries specialist scientist, is approached by Harriet (Emily Blunt), the charming assistant of a rich Sheikh, to work on a project to make salmon fishing in Yemen possible. A ridiculous plan that Alfred initially does not want to do, but he is forced to cooperate by the ruthless spokesman of the Prime Minister (Kirstin Scott Thomas) because it could improve relations between Yemen and Great Britain.
When Alfreds wife (Rachael Stirling) says to Alfred after intercourse, 'Well, that should do you for a while’, you know what kind of marriage they have and when Harriet's boyfriend has to go on a Mission to Afghanistan you can guess how the movie will end. But fortunately, the film is mostly about the spawning of salmon and not the romantic escapades of the main characters. In addition to the problems that nature brings, the interference of politicians and local people does not make it easier to make this project a success. Enough obstacles to overcome that make this film interesting.
The film has a good pace and is nowhere sugary. It's a pleasure to look at the awkward Ewan McGregor. He is very endearing and sympathetic because of his innocent appearance. We all knew he is able to play these types very well because of the character he played in ‘Big Fish’.
Emily Blunt is interesting in the beginning of the film, but she doesn’t have much luck with her part as it is not the most interesting one in this movie. She misses the charisma that her character should have. I do not see what Alfred sees in her.
All tribute goes to Kristin Scott Thomas, who plays the spokesman of the Prime Minister. Although she has to play a merciless character, she may also have some cynical dialogues. Her timing is perfect, making her the funniest character in the movie.
Amr Waked, who plays the Sheikh, comes across as a wise man with an ideal that goes beyond his salmon project. At first, I found him too young for the role, but on closer inspection it is right that he is a little younger because young people have the idea that they can still realise their ideals.
Rachael Stirling knows how to amaze me, like she has done so many times before in other films, with her exceptionally good performance as Alfred's wife. Because she has a Scottish accent for this role, I had to look twice before I recognized her. She plays the career woman who does not seem to mind the marriage rut. She loves her husband and can not imagine he will ever leave her. With this role, Stirling completely makes me forget all other roles she has played. She is not afraid to step out of her comfort zone and gives the part her own touch. There are few actors and actresses who can do this. I already mentioned McGregor and Scott Thomas, although I find them fantastic actors and I value them high, I've seen them play these type of characters before.
This film is an adaptation of Paul Torday's bestseller. I have not read it so can not say if it does justice to the book, but I certainly think this is a fun, amusing and entertaining movie.
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2011) trailer
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