BIG SCREEN: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen Revieux (Rated PG-13)

I’ve seen far too many movies lately that jam together unnatural dialogue and not-quite-there (if not desperately lacking) performances in an obvious effort to hurriedly churn out movies that will, hopefully, just rake in some bucks. Blech. And just when I was about to lose faith, along comes what I can only be describe as… a delightful little film.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is a sweet story about a charmingly geeky and awkward fisheries expert (Ewan McGregor) who is contacted by a consultant (Emily Blunt) whose client, a filthy rich, but deeply spiritual and philosophical sheik, wants to bring fly-fishing to a Middle Eastern desert. He balks at first, but soon finds there’s more than meets the eye in this seemingly silly, impossible task. It takes on great significance to all involved, and begins to mirror their personal struggles.

Sure, there are some geo-political elements sort of tossed into the mix. Culture clashes figure in. And, yeah, there’s a little humor and a sweet love story. But, it’s not a raucous romantic comedy. It’s not a searing social statement. And it’s not a political thriller.

Instead, it’s about gorgeous sweeping vistas and dry British wit and organic dialogue, and the kind of lovely performances for which director Lasse Halstrom (Chocolat, Cider House Rules) is famous for coaxing from his always-brilliant casts. (Case in point: I could watch an entire movie based solely on Kristin Scott Thomas’ deliciously prickly minor role in this movie.)

Someone told me that Halstrom mentioned in an interview that he wanted this movie to be to the audience like a glass of champagne. How perfect is that? Subtle, effervescent, and pairs well with salmon!