Lost Film ‘The Annihilation of Fish’ Finally Sees Release

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — A nearly forgotten piece of cinematic history, director Charles Burnett‘s “The Annihilation of Fish,” is set to screen at the Brattle Theatre from March 28 to March 30, following a 4K restoration by Milestone Film and Video. This unconventional romance, initially shelved in 1999, never made it to theaters or home video formats due to harsh critiques and troubled distribution.

The film stars the late James Earl Jones as Obediah “Fish” Johnson, a Jamaican immigrant recently released from a mental institution, navigating life and love. Jones’ performance, described as one of his most endearing, portrays Fish wrestling with visible and invisible demons alike.

Adapted from a short story by Anthony C. Winkler, “The Annihilation of Fish” explores the whimsical relationship between Fish and a boozy landlady, Flower “Poinsettia” Cummings, played by Lynn Redgrave. Flower, convinced she’s dating the ghost of composer Giacomo Puccini, brings her phantom partner to various dining establishments, complicating her pursuits for romance.

The absurdity of the characters is a focal point of the film. Fish struggles with his own past while Flower’s delusions provide both humor and insight into their complex lives. The film examines the often-ignored idea that everyone has elements of insanity and, perhaps unreasonably, suggests that love could be a means to cope with our quirks.

Margot Kidder‘s portrayal of Mrs. Muldroone, the rooming house landlady, adds comedic depth. Her character embodies warmth and acceptance as she navigates the peculiarities of her tenants, serving as a stabilizing force amidst the chaos of the story.

Despite its charm, the film received a scathing review from Variety’s Todd McCarthy, who called it “a drear moment in the careers of all concerned.” His harsh critique effectively sidelined any chance for the film to find a wider audience upon its initial release.

Burnett, whose previous work includes the critically acclaimed “Killer of Sheep,” has faced challenges getting his films distributed due to their unconventional narratives. His latest effort, “The Annihilation of Fish,” faced similar obstacles, with the production history spanning numerous years due to complicated financing and distribution issues.

The film’s legacy is also entwined with Kidder’s battle with bipolar disorder and tumultuous career. While her character is rich and full of life, Kidder’s real-life struggles highlight the film’s themes of resilience and acceptance in the face of societal stigma.

Originally intended to star Sidney Poitier and Shirley MacLaine in the 1980s, “The Annihilation of Fish” reflects a different era in the film industry where characters were often constrained by demographic expectations. McCarthy’s critique, expressing disdain for the film’s subject matter, paradoxically showcases the very essence that Burnett embraces in his narratives—the beauty found in unconventional love stories.

“The Annihilation of Fish” provides a glimpse into the sometimes whimsical, sometimes dark interplay between love and mental health, making its upcoming release a significant cultural moment for cinema enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates stories of the extraordinary in everyday life.