With Dulo Harris playing Koobi the fish, The Fisherman can come off as a comedy; but it is more. Executive produced by Yvonne Orji, and written and directed by Zoey Martinson, the film draws its roots from West Africa. The story is based in Ghana, bringing the vibrant culture many travel for right to our screens.
Photo Courtesy: Halona Productions and Luu Vision Media
We meet five central characters: Atta, Shasha, Kobina, Emmanuel, and Koobi (the fish). Their town is a fishing hub, where the fisherman’s role is so pivotal there is a chief position for it. When things don’t go as expected for Atta, the quartet and their lucky fish embark on a journey to make their dreams come true. However, the journey is filled with family reckonings, self-discovery, and hilarious but true statements from Koobi, our lucky fish and guide.
Photo Courtesy: Halona Productions and Luu Vision Media
The Fisherman tackles more than pursuing dreams. The production also brings to light the very real issue of the impacts of technology and industrialization in local areas. Specifically, this film addresses historical communities and their way of living. There is a significant impact to these areas and their ways of working, due to industrialization. There is a saying referenced in the film: If a big wave comes, never try to swim over it, or it will overtake you. Those familiar with swimming in the sea know it’s best to swim under the wave to make it through. This is a lesson that will stick with audience members who have the pleasure of watching this heartwarming film. Winner at the 2024 Venice Film Festival and 2025 American Black Film Festival, The Fisherman is worth catching. Currently playing in theaters and will soon be streaming on Apple and Amazon Prime.
