Fish and Elephant (2001): cast, story & where to watch
2001 · Film · ★ 4.2

Released in 2001, Fish and Elephant is a romance film directed by Li Yu, running about 106 minutes.
What it’s about. The story follows the elephant keeper in the Beijing Zoo who maintains an aquarium of fish in her home (hence the two-animal title), and her lesbian lover, a fabric saleswoman in an outdoor market. Her relationship is tested, however, when her recently divorced mother returns to town in the hope of setting her daughter up in marriage. Further complicating matters is one of Xiaoqun's ex-lovers also returning to her life with the law in pursuit.
Who’s in it. Fish and Elephant stars Pan Yi as Qun Xiao, Shi Tou as Ling Xiao, Pengcheng Su and Zhang Jilian as Qun Xiao's Mother, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 4.2/10, Fish and Elephant has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Fish and Elephant page.
If you liked it. Fans of Fish and Elephant tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Your Name., Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Cinema Paradiso.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Fish and Elephant (2001)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Fish and Elephant change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Fish and Elephant worth watching?
- Fish and Elephant holds an audience score of 4.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy romance. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Fish and Elephant?
- Fish and Elephant stars Pan Yi, Shi Tou, Pengcheng Su, Zhang Jilian and Zhang Qiangian.
- When was Fish and Elephant released?
- Fish and Elephant was released in 2001, with a runtime of about 106 minutes.