Venice, Italy — A new film titled “Fish” is set to make waves in the cinematic world, featuring actors Hunter Schafer and Tim Roth in leading roles. Directed by the visionary Italian filmmaker Carlo Hintermann, the film presents a unique blend of genres against the backdrop of a dreamlike Venice.
International pre-sales for “Fish” will be introduced at the upcoming Cannes Marché du Film, as confirmed by Minerva Pictures and TVCO. Production is expected to commence in early 2026, promising to deliver an innovative narrative that challenges the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
In the film, Roth portrays Professor Fish Osborne, a reclusive art historian whose mysterious transformation takes a fantastical turn as he slowly becomes a fish. This metamorphosis serves as a catalyst for his students, including the character Billie, played by Schafer. Through this surreal journey, the students begin to explore their own identities anew, with the synopsis suggesting that “mutation becomes not a curse, but a radical act of liberation.”
Schafer is gaining recognition for her work, including her role in the forthcoming Amazon Prime Video series “Blade Runner 2099” alongside acclaimed actress Michelle Yeoh. Earlier this year, she received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her performance in the horror thriller “Cuckoo.” Following “Fish,” she will also appear in the A24 film “Mother Mary,” sharing the screen with Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel.
Production of “Fish” involves collaborations from various companies, including Indiana Production, known for Netflix’s “The Leopard,” and Hintermann’s Citrullo International. The script, co-written by Hintermann and Marco Saura, alongside Tania Pedroni, marks this project as an international co-production with contributions from Belgium’s Frakas Productions and Amour Fou Luxembourg. The project has garnered support from the Italian culture ministry, the Veneto Film Commission, and Media Creative Europe, highlighting its significance in the European film landscape.
Hintermann’s previous work includes “Book of Vision,” a project influenced by the artistic vision of Terrence Malick, and featuring a compelling performance by Charles Dance. “Fish” is poised to become a key entry in this celebrated director’s oeuvre, further cementing his reputation in the film industry.
As a flagship title in Minerva Pictures’ portfolio, “Fish” represents the company’s commitment to producing impactful films. The Rome-based entity is known for its extensive catalog and focus on both commercial and art-house titles, further strengthened by its recent partnership with TVCO, which specializes in international art film sales.
Both Roth and Schafer are represented by leading talent agencies, ensuring that their rise in the film industry continues to be closely monitored. As anticipation builds for “Fish,” audiences can look forward to a film that promises to offer an artistic experience layered with depth and imagination.