Tropical Fish is a coming-of-age drama film from Taiwan, directed by Chen Yu-Hsun and released in 1995. The film tells the story of Ah-Jiang, a young boy who is struggling with school, suffers from a vivid imagination, and spends most of his time dreaming up stories about his aquarium of fish.
One day, Ah-Jiang witnesses the kidnapping of a young girl by a group of hoodlums. When the kidnappers discover that Ah-Jiang has seen them, they take him hostage as well to make sure he doesn't tell anyone what he saw. The kidnappers, who turn out to be a corrupt family, demand a large sum of money in ransom from the girl's wealthy father.
As they await the ransom payment, Ah-Jiang begins to form an unlikely bond with the young girl he saw being kidnapped. He also receives unexpected help from his imaginary fish, who he sees as his guardians and guides.
Meanwhile, the kidnappers are becoming more and more desperate for the ransom, and tensions rise as the situation becomes increasingly dangerous. Ah-Jiang realizes that he must rely on his own courage and resourcefulness to get himself and the girl out of danger.
Tropical Fish is a film about the power of imagination and the resilience of youth in the face of adversity. It has been praised for its engaging storyline, unique visual style, and strong performances by its young cast.