"Little Fish"

 2020 * Unrated * 1h 41m  I'm a huge fan of sci-fi movies of all types. In general I think they pretty much fall into two categories. The first are the ones where you suspend your belief in reality. They either take place in an alternate universe or are set way into the future. The second category are the movies that take place either now or in the very near future and are entirely plausible .I feel these have quite a bit more impact. "Little Fish" falls into the latter category. 

In the film, a catastrophic pandemic is sweeping the planet. It's called NIA, which stands for Neuro-Inflammatory Affliction, and it causes people to lose their memories. In some, the change is immediate, while in others itthe loss is gradual. The movie reminds me a little of the fine "Perfect Sense." in which people lose their senses, one at a time. It's equally as devastating and moving. Especially with two remarkable leading actors as fine as Olivia Cooke and Jack O'Connell. 

Emma (Cooke) and Jude (O'Connell) are a happily married couple. The film jumps back and forth between the present day to when they first met and started dating. We're also treated to scenes from their wedding day. Then tragedy strikes when Jude begins forgetting things. The couple go to the hospital where it's confirmed that he does indeed have the disease. After the initial shock wears off, they make a plan to deal with the affliction. They create a wall of photos with sticky notes identifying the various people in their lives. 

The couple is so in love, it's absolutely heartbreaking to see Jude forget his past. But they soldier on, and continue to cling to each other and their memories as best they can. It's interesting that "Little Fish" came out during the beginning of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Tragic losses aren't that far behind us. 

Just about everything about this touching, powerful, and beautiful film are perfect. I especially enjoyed the cinematography and the haunting soundtrack. If you're looking for something a bit different, give this fine film a viewing. You won't be disappointed. 

4 1/2 out of 5 stars

Currently streaming for free on Kanopy.com with your library card. Also on Hulu and to rent on YouTube and Prime Video.