SALMON FISHING IN YEMEN
by Janet Lawler
February 22, 2012

Who knew fly-fishing could be so heartwarming and fun?

Salmon Fishing in Yemen, the new movie, definitely hooked its audience last night at an advanced screening here in Manhattan.  The romantic comedy stars Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt, with a terrific supporting role for Kristin Scott Thomas.

The story is a fish tale -- about a Middle Eastern sheik who wants to bring the sport of fly-fishing to his country.  Money is no object... and so, Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor join forces to make it happen. 

It's a romantic comedy (with a tricky title for a movie) that make both lead characters endearing to the audience as well as to each other.  Blunt brings her familiar wit and charisma from "The Devil Wears Prada" but adds a delicate touch to the dramatic scenes.  Ewan McGregor is adorable in every scene -- I can't say much more -- he's simply adorable to watch.  He makes you root for the fish too.

Kristin Scott Thomas

Kristin Scott Thomas gets plenty of laughs throughout portraying a fast-talking Brit press manager/mother-of-three.  Her line telling her son to remove his "hoodie" is golden, but I can't repeat it here.  Go see the movie for yourself.  The film is directed by Lasse Hallstrom -- well-paced, enticing, with stunning shots of Afghanistan,  The screenplay is written by Simon Beaufoy, based on the novel by Paul Torday. 

After the movie, I heard several people raving about it outside.  One movie-goer said to her friend "I'd  go see that again!".

Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor

I would too.  It's a good one. Go catch this movie, you won't be tempted to throw it back.

"Salmon Fishing in Yemen" opens on March 9th.  Here is the movie trailer http://fishingintheyemen.com/ 

Enjoy the Oscars on Sunday, February 26th on ABC! 

Until next time.