Fish Tank
Fish Tank

Fish Tank

2009Movie123 minEnglish

Fifteen-year-old Mia is in a constant state of war with her family and the world around her. When she meets her party-girl mother’s charming new boyfriend Connor, she is amazed to find he returns her attention, and believes he might help her start to make sense of her life.

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Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic81/100
Google Users89%
Director: Andrea ArnoldGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

Set in the deprived East End of London, the film follows 15-year-old Mia, who is expelled from school and spends her days listening to hip-hop and looking after her younger sister. Her life takes a volatile turn when her mother brings home a new boyfriend, Connor, who seems to offer Mia the attention and guidance she craves.

Critical Reception

Fish Tank was widely acclaimed by critics, praised for its raw authenticity, compelling performances, and unflinching portrayal of working-class life. It was particularly lauded for its direction and the breakout performance of Katie Jarvis. The film resonated with audiences for its emotional intensity and stark realism.

What Reviewers Say

  • A raw and powerful depiction of teenage alienation and coming-of-age.
  • Features a stunning, naturalistic performance from newcomer Katie Jarvis.
  • Michael Fassbender delivers a charismatic yet unsettling performance.

Google audience: Viewers found 'Fish Tank' to be a compelling and emotionally resonant film, highlighting its realistic portrayal of difficult circumstances and the strong performances of its cast. Many appreciated its unflinching honesty and thought-provoking narrative.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Jury Prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival. Nominated for Outstanding British Film at the 2010 BAFTA Awards. Won Best Film at the 2009 British Independent Film Awards.

Fun Fact

Andrea Arnold discovered lead actress Katie Jarvis working as a cashier at a supermarket in London; Jarvis had no prior acting experience.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Kate Jarvis is on great form here as the vulnerably odious "Mia". Living with her mother and sister, she is unruly and uncaring. Nobody cares about her and she cheerfully reciprocates. That is, however, until her mum (Kierston Wareing) brin...