Movie with Abe: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
Directed by Lasse Hallström
Released March 9, 2012 / DVD July 17, 2012

This dramatic comedy surprised many by earning three Golden Globe nominations, including a bid for Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical. Based on the novel by Paul Torday, this gradually endearing film spotlights the fictionalized effort by the British government to drum up some positive press in the Arab world after an embarrassing incident in Afghanistan by trying to transplant fly fishing to Yemen. In the lead roles are the always charming Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt, cast as a buttoned-up government employee and the financial advisor determined to make her desire endeavor possible, respectively, both delivering decent performances hardly as compelling as some of their previous parts. Kristin Scott Thomas dominates a good portion of the film as the Prime Minister’s overbearing press secretary, stepping on all of her subordinates and ensuring that her will is done. Lasse Hallström, well known for “Chocolat” and “The Cider House Rules,” creates a meagerly memorable cinematic experience with minimal dramatic impact. Several excessively serious moments seem out of place in this light story, and, overall, the film feels fleeting. A few enjoyable and inspirational scenes aside, “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” doesn’t offer much to remember.

C+