Accra’s Silverbird Cinemas buzzed with excitement on Wednesday, September 10, as a private screening of The Fisherman gave audiences an exclusive first look ahead of its official premiere on Friday, September 19.
The preview showcased the film’s unique blend of humor, culture, and captivating storytelling.
Written and directed by Zoey Martinson, and produced by Kofi Owusu Afriyie and Korey Jackson, The Fisherman is a Venice Film Festival-winning comedy featuring a stellar cast including Endurance Dedzo, William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, Fred Amugi, Dulo Harris, and Ricky Adelayitar.
The story centers on Atta Oko, an aging fisherman determined to buy a boat and bring honor to his village. His quest takes a whimsical turn when he encounters a sarcastic, talking fish. With the help of three young companions, Oko embarks on a journey from his fishing village to bustling Accra, navigating the delicate balance between tradition and modernity.
The film’s magic lies in its seamless fusion of laughter, folklore, and Ghanaian identity, while also touching on universal themes of resilience, family, friendship, and staying relevant in a fast-changing world.
During the screening, cast members reflected on how the narrative mirrors real-life struggles of chasing dreams and adapting to change.
Dancer and actress Endurance, who plays a key role, addressed criticism she has faced for her tomboy style, often perceived as “too masculine.” She noted that her versatility and comfort with both feminine and masculine expression added depth to her character.
“I also embrace my feminine side. I like to switch it up depending on how I’m feeling, but most times, I dress as a tomboy and that has been useful for this movie. Audiences will appreciate my talent and what I bring to the story because The Fisherman is about our culture and the everyday experiences of fishing communities,” she said.