Films about fishermen delve into the lives, both personally and professionally, of those who earn their living by harvesting from the sea. These stories often explore themes of adventure, struggle, community, and the profound relationship between humans and nature. They might portray the daily life of a fisherman, their battles against the elements, the camaraderie and rivalry within their community, or the complexities of balancing a demanding job with personal life. Some films use the profession as a backdrop for larger tales, while others focus intimately on the craft itself. Below is a list of notable films that revolve around fishermen and their unique way of life:
“A River Runs Through It”, 1992
Director: Robert Redford
While not exclusively about fishermen, this film intricately weaves the art of fly fishing into a story about family, nature, and the passage of time, as experienced by two brothers growing up in Montana.
Starring: Craig Sheffer, Brad Pitt, Tom Skerritt, Brenda Blethyn, Emily Lloyd, Edie McClurg, Stephen Shellen, Vann Gravage, Nicole Burdette, Susan Traylor;
Production year: 1992;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “A River Runs Through It” on the website imdb.com
“Salmon Fishing in the Yemen”, 2011
Director: Lasse Hallström
This film blends comedy and drama, focusing on a fisheries expert who is approached to bring salmon fishing to the highlands of Yemen. It's a story about faith, fish, and the unlikely friendships that can change one's life.
Starring: Ewan McGregor, Emily Blunt, Kristin Scott Thomas, Amr Waked, Catherine Steadman, Tom Mison, Rachael Stirling, Tom Beard, Jill Baker, Conleth Hill;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” on the website imdb.com
“Leviathan”, 1989
Director: George P. Cosmatos
A Russian film that, while not solely about fishing, is set in a coastal town and depicts the life of a man who fights a corrupt mayor wanting to seize his land. The backdrop shows the hard lives of the townspeople, many of whom are connected to the fishing industry.
Starring: Peter Weller, Richard Crenna, Amanda Pays, Daniel Stern, Ernie Hudson, Michael Carmine, Lisa Eilbacher, Hector Elizondo, Meg Foster, Eugene Lipinski;
Production year: 1989;
Genre: horror, science fiction, thriller, adventure;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,8;
More information about the film “Leviathan” on the website imdb.com
“The Fisherman”, 2015
Director: Alejandro Suárez Lozano
A short film telling the story of an aging fisherman who sets out to sea to claim the massive catch he encountered years ago, weaving a simple yet poignant tale of determination and the pursuit of one last great adventure.
Starring: Andrew Ng, Ng Kam Cheun, Patrick Yip, Fung Tak Che, Scott Eliasoph;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: short film, horror, science fiction, drama;
Duration: 20 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “The Fisherman” on the website imdb.com
These films, each in their own unique way, capture the essence, challenges, and beauty of the fishing lifestyle, often highlighting the profound connections between the characters and the sea.
In the vast ocean of cinematic narratives, films about fishermen stand out for their raw and powerful portrayal of human resilience, the unpredictable nature of the sea, and the timeless bond between man and nature. From the fierce battles against unseen forces beneath the waves in “The Perfect Storm” to the poignant, introspective journey of Santiago in “The Old Man and the Sea,” these stories delve deep into the heart and soul of their characters, offering audiences a glimpse into the lives defined by the endless horizon. They remind us of the humility required in the face of nature's magnitude and the tenacity of the human spirit. Films about fishermen transcend the mere act of catching fish; they weave tales of survival, existential quests, and the perpetual dance between man and the wild, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of cinema. Through their lens, we witness not only the struggle for sustenance but also the deeper quest for meaning and belonging in the vast, unforgiving expanse of the ocean.
