Is Giant Fish Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2020)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2020, Giant Fish represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Fantasy, Romance, Mystery category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The film tells the story of Zihao living in a seaside town returning to Hong Kong and living a life by the sea. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Fantasy, Romance, Mystery are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The film tells the story of Zihao living in a seaside town returning to Hong Kong and living a life by the sea. One day, he met the mysterious girl Xiaoyi and began to take care of Xiaoyi's life. The ocean boat where Zihao's father was, the fishing boat returned, but the crew were all missing. Zihao, who experienced the pain of losing his father, walked out of the haze under the care of Xiaoyi, and the two were together. But the good times didn't last long. A mysterious middle-aged man named Lao Jin came to Hong Kong and revealed Xiaoyi's true identity"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Fu Mengni, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Fantasy. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Yin Yue is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 95 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Giant Fish truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, then this is a mandatory viewing experience—a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 9.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Giant Fish explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2020 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Yin Yue respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Giant Fish is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Fu Mengni or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Giant Fish is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.