Little Fish
Movie Trailer
Release Date
February 5, 2021
Genre
Science Fiction, Romance, Drama
Cast & Crew
- Olivia Cooke as Emma Ryerson
- Jack O’Connell as Jude Williams
- Raúl Castillo as Ben Richards
- Soko as Samantha
- David Lennon as Tim
Director
Chad Hartigan
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Morris from America (2016)
- This Is Martin Bonner (2013)
Producer
- Tim Headington
- Lia Buman
- Mattson Tomlin
- Chris Ferguson
Writer
- Mattson Tomlin (screenplay)
- Based on the short story by Aja Gabel
Budget
Estimated $5 million
Production Company
- Automatik Entertainment
- Tango Entertainment
- Oddfellows Entertainment
Running Time
101 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Emotional themes
- Mild language
- Depictions of illness
Movie Story
“Little Fish” is a poignant sci-fi romance set in a near-future world grappling with a mysterious pandemic known as Neuroinflammatory Affliction (NIA), a disease that causes memory loss. The film focuses on the relationship between Emma (Olivia Cooke) and Jude (Jack O’Connell), a young married couple whose love is put to the test as the virus begins to affect their memories.
As the pandemic spreads, more and more people lose their memories, forgetting who they are, who they love, and the events that have shaped their lives. Emma and Jude are desperate to hold onto their relationship, even as they see those around them fall victim to the disease. The film follows the couple as they navigate the challenges of living in a world where memories are slipping away, and they must fight to keep their love and connection intact.
The narrative unfolds through a non-linear structure, blending past and present as Emma recalls their relationship’s key moments—how they met, fell in love, and the life they built together. As Jude starts to show symptoms of NIA, their relationship is thrown into crisis, and they embark on a quest to find a cure, even as the world around them falls into chaos.
“Little Fish” is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that explores themes of memory, identity, and the fragility of human connections. It asks the question: What would you do if you started to forget the most important person in your life? The film’s intimate focus on Emma and Jude’s relationship, combined with its exploration of the impact of a global crisis, makes for a haunting and resonant love story.
Special Effects
“Little Fish” uses its special effects subtly to enhance the film’s narrative, particularly in depicting the disorienting effects of NIA on memory. The film employs a mix of practical effects and creative editing techniques to convey the characters’ experiences of memory loss, creating a sense of confusion and loss that mirrors the emotional turmoil of the story. The visual style is understated, allowing the film’s emotional core to take center stage.
Box Office Performance
“Little Fish” was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited its theatrical release. However, it found a wider audience through video-on-demand and streaming platforms. The film received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly those of Olivia Cooke and Jack O’Connell, as well as its timely exploration of themes related to loss, love, and the fear of forgetting. While it did not achieve significant box office success, it resonated strongly with viewers and critics alike, becoming a sleeper hit in the indie film circuit.
Filming Locations
- Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Notable Quotes
- “What’s the point of loving someone if you’re just going to lose them?” – Emma
- “We’ll figure this out together, no matter what happens.” – Jude
- “Memories are all we have. They’re what make us who we are.” – Emma
Behind-the-Scenes
“Little Fish” was directed by Chad Hartigan and written by Mattson Tomlin, who adapted the screenplay from a short story by Aja Gabel. The film’s exploration of memory loss and its impact on relationships was deeply personal for the filmmakers, who aimed to create a narrative that was both intimate and universal. The chemistry between Olivia Cooke and Jack O’Connell was crucial to the film’s success, with both actors delivering powerful performances that anchor the emotional depth of the story.
Awards
While “Little Fish” did not receive major awards, it was widely praised in film reviews and noted for its timely and emotionally resonant exploration of a world facing a memory-loss pandemic. The film’s performances and storytelling were highlighted as standout elements.
Final Verdict
“Little Fish” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally charged sci-fi romance that captures the fear and heartbreak of losing memories and the people we love. With standout performances from Olivia Cooke and Jack O’Connell, the film offers a haunting and intimate portrayal of love in the face of a global crisis. Its exploration of memory, identity, and connection makes it a powerful and timely film that resonates on both a personal and universal level. “Little Fish” is a must-watch for fans of thoughtful, character-driven dramas with a touch of science fiction.
IMDb Rating
6.9/10