Yvonne Orji Joins Groundbreaking Ghanaian Film The Fisherman as Executive Producer
Emmy-nominated actress, comedian, and producer Yvonne Orji has officially signed on as an executive producer for The Fisherman, the acclaimed feature directorial debut of filmmaker Zoey Martinson. Orji joins the project through her production company, in & thru, bringing her creative expertise and industry influence to one of Africa’s most groundbreaking cinematic achievements.
The Fisherman made history in 2024 as Ghana’s first-ever Official Selection at the 81st Venice Film Festival, where it premiered to critical acclaim and won the prestigious Fellini Medal and the Enrico Fulchignoni Prize from UNESCO. A whimsical comedy with rich cultural undertones, the film marks a major milestone for West African cinema.
A Story Rooted in Culture and Comedy
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Ghana, The Fisherman follows the story of Atta Oko, a retired traditional fisherman whose quiet life is upended when he encounters an unlikely companion — a wisecracking, sarcastic talking fish. Their odd-couple dynamic becomes the heart of a humorous and touching journey from a quiet village to the bustling capital of Accra. Along the way, they are joined by three rebellious young dreamers in search of financial independence and their own boat.
This genre-blending tale weaves comedy with a heartfelt exploration of tradition, ambition, and modernity. The film reflects the universal human desire for purpose, freedom, and connection — all through a uniquely Ghanaian lens.
Yvonne Orji Brings Star Power and Storytelling Savvy
Best known for her Emmy-nominated role on HBO’s Insecure, Yvonne Orji is a celebrated storyteller with a growing resume as an actress, producer, stand-up comic, and author. Her decision to executive produce The Fisherman underscores her commitment to promoting culturally rich, diverse stories.
“Zoey is an extraordinary filmmaker with a distinct voice, and I’m honored to champion her vision for The Fisherman as an EP,” said Orji. “As a First-Generation Nigerian immigrant, this story felt personal, yet relatable. It carries both emotional weight and cultural relevance, and I’m excited to support projects like these that push the narrative forward while spotlighting bold, underrepresented talent.”
Orji’s involvement amplifies the film’s international visibility and supports its mission of expanding African narratives on the global stage.
A Strong Team Behind the Scenes
The Fisherman is directed and written by Zoey Martinson, known for her writing and directing credits across HBO Max, Showtime, Hulu (Disney+), and Mzansi Magic DStv. Martinson brings her signature blend of humor and cultural depth to this debut feature, further establishing herself as a formidable voice in global cinema.
The film stars a standout cast including Ricky Adelayitar (Beasts of No Nation), Endurance Grand, William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, Adwoa Akoto (I May Destroy You), and Dulo Harris (Tales From The Big Apple). It is produced by Luu Vision Media, with producers Kofi Owusu Afriyie and Korey Jackson (Godfather of Harlem) steering the project.
Supported by La Biennale di Venezia’s College Cinema lab, The Fisherman is currently seeking international distribution and continues to build momentum ahead of additional festival screenings.
A New Chapter in African Cinema
The Fisherman is more than a film — it’s a symbol of African storytelling entering a new global era. With the backing of a talent like Yvonne Orji and the vision of Zoey Martinson, it represents a new wave of cinema that is bold, funny, emotionally resonant, and authentically African.
For updates on The Fisherman, upcoming screenings, and distribution announcements, visit the official website at www.TheFishermanFilm.com.
