Going for Mackerel

The film focuses on the interplay between magic belief, technology and organisation.

To avoid bad luck, Norwegian fishermen still rely on superstition in spite of the fact that they can count on science, technology and tactical skills for a successful fishing season. The film follows the crew of the Norwegian fishing vessel Havdron as they set out for a new season of mackerel fishing, which constitutes their main source of income. Fishing can be a difficult activity, because of the risks at sea and the instability of the prices on the market. In their attempt to control risk and uncertainty, people turn to magic. The film shows to what extent magical thinking is part of the life and work on board a fishing vessel. In a broader sense, this film challenges our own superstitious ideas and beliefs.