British film-makers seem to create a sense of warmth in their work that their American counterparts can only dream about. Their characters are very real and the stories they tell are believable.
Trying to make a story that involves salmon fishing and the Republic of Yemen captivating was always goingto be a testing task.
But remarkably director Lasse Hallstrom (Chocolat) and writer Simon Beaufoy (Slumdog Millionaire) have pulled off one of the feel-good movies of the year, particularly for older audiences.
Based on Paul Torday's acclaimed novel, it tells the story of scientist Dr Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), who is called upon by intermediary consultant Harriet (Emily Blunt) to help fulfil the bizarre dream of Yemeni Sheikh Muhammed (Amr Waked).
The proper and conservative Dr Jones wants no part of the futile project and only pressure from higher up makes him aware he has no choice but to comply. It is Harriet's role to ease him into the project and make sure he gives it his best. Slowly, and inspired by the sheikh's passion, Alfred buys into the project and develops a love for what he is doing and the part of the world he is doing it in.
He also finds spending time with Harriet a happy respite from his otherwise controlled and loveless life.
Adding a touch of political intrigue and interference is the British prime minister's press officer, Patricia Maxwell, played by Kristin Scott Thomas, who attempts to stage manage everything she is involved in with much hilarity.
Gentle humour is very much part of this story; it is unexpected but most welcome.
