To fulfill the dreams of a Yemeni sheikh, abetted by the Prime Minister's press secretary (Kristin Scott Thomas) who is desperate for a major positive story, a leading fish hatchery expert (Ewan McGregor) is contracted by an intermediary (Emily Blunt) to fulfill the absurd title initiative. "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen" is the same kind of well-made pap that has been synonymous with most of Lasse Hallstrom's work. It is pleasant and inoffensive and features likable leads who should probably be pursuing more challenging projects.