The Fish Tale

Film description

Meebo’s life revolves around fish. She’s been learning everything she can about the underwater world ever since she was a child; she’s a veritable “fish-holic” who knows everything there is to know about fish – from species characteristics to variations in taste. She fears neither squid, nor octopus. People around her are a little skeptical about her fascination with the world of fish, and Meebo clearly stands out among her peers. But that is part of her charm – she is undoubtedly endearing. Apart from her fascination with the animal world, Meebo has an incredibly life-affirming spirit and is ready to share her optimism. The Fish Tale is actually a cinematic twist on the life of one of the more surprising online celebrities in Japan – Sakana-kun, an ichthyologist known for his lectures, which he delivers wearing a fish-hat.

The movie is the latest soothing biography directed by Shuichi Okita, a tale of a soft-spoken nerd told in a colorful and nostalgic manner. The director expertly weaves together elements of school drama, scenes from the yakuza underworld, an environmental message, and magical realism. The film re-imagines Sakana-kun as a woman, played by Non – one of the most interesting young actresses and directors, known for her off-beat roles. Her turn as the neurotic Sakana-kun brings to mind one of Okita’s earlier movies, A Story of Yonosuke, which revolved around a protagonist as naive and guileless as the unconventional fish expert. Their presence changes everyone around them. This is the greatest strength of this free-spirited character, forever different and proud of it.

text:
Łukasz Mańkowski