Full Breakdown
Mark Rylance’s Directorial Debut “Nice Fish” Set for Cannes Film Market
4/30/2026, 2:09:21 AM
Directorial Debut: “Nice Fish” Overview
Mark Rylance will direct and star in his first feature, “Nice Fish,” with Oscar nominee Michelle Williams, Jim Lichtscheidl, and Isabella LaBlanc. The plot follows childhood friends Ron and Erik on a final ice-fishing trip that tests their bond. The film is co-produced by Water & Power Productions and Shakespeare Road Productions. International sales will launch at Cannes, and CAA Media Finance will handle North American rights.
From Prose Poems to Screenplay
The film adapts an Olivier-nominated stage play built from over 600 prose poems by Minnesota poet Louis Jenkins. Rylance and Lichtscheidl turned the poems into a screenplay.
Cast and Creative Team
The cast includes Mark Rylance (Oscar winner for *Bridge of Spies*), Michelle Williams (five Oscar nominations), Jim Lichtscheidl (*A Serious Man*) and Isabella LaBlanc (*True Detective: Night Country*). Producers Tom Miller and James Swarbrick lead the project, with Dan Clifton as co-producer. Jörg Widmer is cinematographer, Paul Watts edits, Ilona Somogyi designs costumes, and April Lasky handles production design.
Production Structure and Collaboration
Water & Power and Shakespeare Road share producing credits, with Rylance and Claire Walden representing Shakespeare Road. The crew includes BAFTA-nominated editor Paul Watts and award-winning designers, underscoring a high-profile collaboration.
Official Statements and Market Position
Tamara Birkemoe, CEO of Palisades Park Pictures, said the film will be shown to international buyers at Cannes and called it an original, emotionally resonant work. Producer Tom Miller praised Rylance’s directorial debut and the ensemble. CAA Media Finance confirmed its role in North American rights, while CAA continues to represent Rylance and Williams.
Impact and Outlook
Industry observers view “Nice Fish” as a festival contender that could broaden Rylance’s reputation beyond acting. Cannes sales may secure theatrical releases in multiple territories and position the film for awards.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I grew up in the Midwest and later built my acting career in London, but returning to Minnesota reconnected me with the light, the cold, the distinct culture of Minnesota and Wisconsin,” — Mark Rylance, Actor-Director
- “An ice fishing trip and the work of a local poet inspired what became Nice Fish, an Olivier-nominated stage play, and now my first feature as a director. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with an incredible team, drawing inspiration from filmmakers and classic comedic pairings that have long influenced me.” — Mark Rylance
- “We are so pleased and honoured to be working with Mark again, particularly on his directorial debut, and with the wonderful Jim, Michelle, Isabella, and an incredible crew, we’re hooked!” — Tom Miller, Producer
- “Mark and Jim have written a film that is emotional, funny and refreshingly original,” — Tamara Birkemoe, CEO, Palisades Park Pictures
Upcoming Market Activity
International sales for “Nice Fish” will start at Cannes, where Palisades Park Pictures will pitch the film. North American rights negotiations will follow, led by CAA Media Finance.
