"Salmon Fishing in the Yemen" charms

With a title like "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen," I had little interest in seeing it. Then I saw the trailer. Hmm. Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt. Okay, maybe it wouldn't be too bad.

It's essentially the story of a visionary sheik (Amr Waked) who believes salmon fishing can enrich the lives of people in the Yemen. He wants to bring this "peaceful" sport to the not so fish-friendly desert and is willing to spare no expense. He instructs his representative Harriet (Blunt) to turn the dream into reality. Because the sheik is a big deal, Britain's leading fisheries expert Alfred Jones (McGregor) gets involved. Of course Alfred thinks the project is insane and unachievable. But when politicians get involved looking for some good publicity in the Middle East, Alfred must find a way to make it work. In the middle of it all, Alfred and Harriet struggle with their romantic relationships at home. It also stars Kristin Scott Thomas in a hilarious role as a press secretary to the British Prime Minister.

It's PG-13 for some violence and sexual content and brief language, including a mom using the F-word with her son. "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen" is based on Paul Torday's political satire by the same title.

I decided that I'd take the entire family, as it was billed as humorous and inspirational. I knew there may be some romantic elements, but with a PG-13, I wasn't too worried. There wasn't any nudity. There was some kissing, but nothing too intense.

We all came away thinking it was charming. Was it unbelievable? Sure, it's based on a political satire, but the film makes you feel good. The movie was funny at times and offered up hope. Since we took the kids, It gave our family a chance to talk about another part of the world. We didn't get too deep, as the movie just touched on the violence and distaste for Western ideals (people are shot at and threatened in the movie, and a damn is busted to destroy a fishing spot; some die in the event). It also touched on Asperger's Syndrome, a form of high-functioning autism usually associated with social difficulties.

It's likely a good choice for date night or taking a family with young teens. My grade: B

Cheers!