The Fishbowl (2023) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“The Fishbowl” (original title: La Pecera) is a powerful 2023 Puerto Rican drama directed and written by Glorimar Marrero Sánchez. The film is an intimate, emotionally charged exploration of illness, identity, and environmental devastation, all set against the backdrop of the island of Vieques. Featuring a raw and moving performance by Isel Rodríguez as Noelia, the protagonist, the movie resonates with deep personal and political themes.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s narrative, its symbolism, and its impact while also guiding you on where to watch The Fishbowl online in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Noelia (Isel Rodríguez) is a Puerto Rican woman battling terminal cancer. When she learns that her disease has metastasized, she chooses to return to her homeland of Vieques rather than undergo further treatment. Vieques, a small island off Puerto Rico’s coast, carries its own wounds—devastated by decades of U.S. military testing that has left behind pollution, unexploded ordnance, and long-term health consequences for the local population.
As Noelia reconnects with her mother Flora (Magali Carrasquillo) and her community, she becomes involved in local activism while documenting her final days. The film juxtaposes her personal struggle with the ongoing environmental and social crises of Vieques, creating a poignant parallel between a woman’s battle against cancer and an island’s fight for survival.
Themes and Symbolism
1. Illness as a Metaphor for Colonialism
The film uses Noelia’s deteriorating health as an allegory for the environmental and social decay caused by colonialism. Vieques, much like Noelia, is scarred by an external force that has exploited and harmed it. The contamination left by U.S. military testing mirrors Noelia’s cancer—both being invasive, destructive, and largely ignored by those in power.
2. A Poignant Exploration of Mortality and Freedom
Noelia’s choice to return to Vieques rather than seek treatment is more than just a resignation to fate—it’s a reclaiming of agency. She chooses to spend her remaining time on her own terms, in a place that defines her identity. Her story is about embracing life’s final moments with purpose rather than succumbing to fear.
3. The Beauty and Tragedy of Vieques
The cinematography highlights the stunning yet wounded landscapes of Vieques. The film paints a stark contrast between the island’s breathtaking beaches and the invisible toxins beneath its soil. Scenes of community gatherings, music, and cultural rituals add a layer of warmth to the film, emphasizing resilience in the face of hardship.
Acting and Direction
Isel Rodríguez’s Heart-Wrenching Performance
Rodríguez delivers a deeply moving portrayal of Noelia, capturing her quiet strength, vulnerability, and inner turmoil. Her performance is nuanced, avoiding melodrama while maintaining an emotional intensity that lingers long after the credits roll.
Glorimar Marrero Sánchez’s Directorial Vision
For a directorial debut, Marrero Sánchez demonstrates impressive restraint and artistic precision. She employs a minimalist style that allows the film’s emotions and themes to unfold naturally. The film’s pacing, while slow at times, complements its meditative tone.
Criticisms: A Film That Asks for Patience
While The Fishbowl is beautifully crafted, it may not appeal to all audiences. The film’s slow-burn storytelling and minimal dialogue require patience, and some viewers may find themselves yearning for more narrative progression. Additionally, while the film touches on several socio-political issues, it doesn’t delve deeply into any single one, which some critics argue weakens its impact.
Where to Watch The Fishbowl Online
As of March 2025, The Fishbowl is not yet available for streaming on major platforms. However, based on typical indie film distribution patterns, we can expect it to appear on one or more of the following services in the near future:
Streaming Platforms to Watch For:
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Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase)
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Apple TV (Rental/Purchase)
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Vudu (Rental/Purchase)
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Google Play Movies (Rental/Purchase)
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Hulu (Potential Future Availability)
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HBO Max (Possible Future Distribution)
For the most up-to-date streaming availability, visit:
➡ JustWatch – The Fishbowl
Additionally, you can check the film’s official website for updates on screenings and distribution:
➡ Monument Releasing – The Fishbowl
Final Verdict: Should You Watch The Fishbowl?
Absolutely—if you appreciate thought-provoking cinema. The Fishbowl is not just a film about one woman’s struggle; it’s a reflection of an entire nation’s fight for justice. It is a deeply personal yet universally relevant story that deserves to be seen, discussed, and remembered.
While it may not be for those who prefer fast-paced narratives, those willing to embrace its meditative style will find a film rich with emotion, meaning, and artistry.
The Fishbowl (2023) is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant film that sheds light on a pressing environmental and social issue. If you’re a fan of indie dramas that carry weighty themes and breathtaking cinematography, this is a must-watch.
📌 Stay Updated: Keep an eye on JustWatch for streaming availability.
🎬 Support Indie Cinema: Follow the film’s progress on Monument Releasing.
💬 Join the Discussion: Have you watched The Fishbowl? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
