The Amazing Catfish

I first heard about this film at a Film Festival but tickets were sold out and I was very disappointed that I missed it. It sounded great. I put it on my WatchList and eagerly waited for it to come out on DVD. Finally it's here. Then I watch it and I feel disappointed. It's not what I expected.

The trailer and the promotional material at the Festival failed to convey the actual tone of this film. I had been given the impression that once this group gets together they go on some journey that is fun and delightful. However, this group meets in a hospital and every journey outside the hospital involves returning to the hospital due to the mother's serious illness. This is a sad film and the only joy is the fact that the young woman who joins their family is able to contribute a lot of love and to receive a lot of love in return. I know that in reality some joy and love in life are better than nothing and better than suffering alone. If you understand that reality and are prepared to confront it, then you will enjoy this film. If you are looking for entertainment to distract you from that reality, you probably should choose a different film...