Fisherman’s Friends – Review

Based on a true story, Fisherman’s Friends tells the tale of a small Port Isaac group of fishermen which also happen to be pretty good folk singers. Jim (Purefoy), Jago (Hayman), Leadville (Johns), Rowan (Swainsbury) and six more all pack onto a small fishing boat every morning to go out to sea. As they talk and joke, they may catch a fun singing line as well as fish below. Their songs break out into well-done melodies as the group harmonizes.

As Londoners Danny (Mays), Troy (Clarke), Driss (Clarke) and Henry (Brassington) hit the town for a stag do, their boat booking goes wrong. These vacationers are seen about as handy as an invasive species of ants by the locals, who don’t typically care for outsiders in their close-knit community. When they go out surfing, they get stuck at sea, unable to get back due to tides and currents. They are saved by the boat of fishermen, and they get a taste of their music ability shortly after.

This group of young Londoners actually happens to be in the music industry, working for big label Universal Records. Troy makes a joke about copyright free songs, and music that transports them to the high seas. Danny tries to use his charms to sign the group, which are not interested. Troy and the others take off, ditching Danny in town. Will Danny be able to sink into the community, and wind up finding the right path to recording these men and their vocalizations? Or, will Danny get swept up trying to woo Jim’s hot daughter Alwyn (Middleton)?

The script is sound, albeit a bit by the numbers for a tale like this. That doesn’t hurt the presentation in any way however, as it’s a good time and sometimes the straight approach is best. There is some comedy and romance sprinkled into the tale, giving plenty of viewers a reason for entry, even if the music doesn’t reach your soul. Some emotional moments are included in the tale, and not all are happy times, but for the most part this is a harmless and feel good story. The small port town is a nice catch, and the actors all do a great job with their roles, even if smaller.

Fisherman’s Friends is a welcoming time into Port Isaac with catchy melodic tunes and a fun community. It balances humanity and music quite well, as the small town’s livelihood is on display while the music matches the local people’s hearts. The story is a good one, and it should be easy for most anyone to sink into. If you are down to cast your line into an uncontemporary style of music, check this true story out.