Before you decide what’s showing at the cinema this weekend, there’s one title already making its case across borders. The Fisherman, the Ghanaian comedy-drama that has quietly built one of West Africa’s most decorated recent festival runs, is now officially arriving in Nigerian cinemas, and the trailer is setting the tone.
Directed by Zoey Martinson in her feature debut and executive produced by Yvonne Orji, the film blends folklore-inspired storytelling with contemporary social commentary, following a retired fisherman whose life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a sarcastic talking fish.
At the centre of the story is Atta Oko, a retired traditional fisherman whose routine existence is disrupted when he is paired with an unlikely companion—a talking fish with attitude. Alongside his three quirky associates, Shasha, Kobina, and Emmanuel, he embarks on a whimsical journey to Accra, chasing the dream of owning a boat while navigating the tension between tradition and modern ambition.
The film leans into warmth and surreal humour, balancing cultural texture with an offbeat narrative style that feels both grounded and imaginative.
The cast features Ricky Adelayitar, William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, Adwoa Akoto, and Princess Fathia Nkrumah, with Nigerian dancer and content creator Endurance Grand adding crossover star appeal. Nigerian comedian Dulo Harris also voices the film’s standout talking fish character, bringing a comedic layer that drives much of the film’s tone.
Behind the camera, The Fisherman carries significant industry weight. Produced by Luu Vision Media, the film has been widely recognised across international festivals, beginning with a historic selection at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it became Ghana’s first official entry and won the UNESCO Fellini Medal.
Its festival momentum continued with Best Narrative Feature at the American Black Film Festival, Best Ghanaian Film at the REFFA Awards, and a nomination for Outstanding International Motion Picture at the NAACP Image Awards. Director Zoey Martinson also earned Best Director at AFRIFF in Lagos, presented by David Oyelowo, further cementing the film’s critical acclaim.
Watch the trailer below.
Now, the film is extending its journey to local audiences, officially screening in Nigerian cinemas from 15 May 2026, inviting viewers into a story that blends humour, heritage, and imagination in equal measure.