Bait is a British independent film directed by Mark Jenkin and released in 2019. The film is shot on a vintage wind-up camera in black and white, with the sound recorded separately and added in post-production. It tells the story of Martin Ward, a fisherman from the Cornish village of Port Isaac, who is struggling to make ends meet in a changing world.
When Martin's brother Steven sells their father's boat and uses it for a tourist tripper, Martin is left without a means of catching fish. He is forced to sell his catch to the tourists who visit the village, and he grows increasingly resentful of their presence. Meanwhile, Martin's childhood home has been turned into a holiday rental for wealthy Londoners, further alienating him from the community he grew up in.
As tensions rise between Martin and the tourists, a tragic event occurs that forces him to confront his own attitudes and prejudices. The film also explores themes of gentrification, class conflict, and the impact of modern technology on traditional industries.
Bait received critical acclaim for its unique visual style and powerful storytelling. It won several awards at film festivals around the world, including the BAFTA for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. The film was praised for its portrayal of the Cornish fishing community and its exploration of timeless themes that resonate with audiences today.
