‘The Annihilation of Fish’ and free popcorn at the Strand Theatre

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Strand Theatre will screen The Annihilation of Fish starring James Earl Jones on Saturday, March 22, at 7 PM, marking the long-awaited theatrical release of the 1999 film, directed by Charles Burnett, an acclaimed filmmaker born in Vicksburg.

Burnett, a recipient of an Honorary Academy Award® for lifetime achievement, is known for his significant contributions to independent cinema. The screening of The Annihilation of Fish, which stars the late James Earl Jones and Lynn Redgrave, offers a rare opportunity for Vicksburg audiences to experience a film that was never released upon its completion.

The film tells the story of Poinsettia (Redgrave), a former housewife who imagines an affair with 19th-century composer Giacomo Puccini, and Fish (Jones), a Jamaican widower who struggles with his past following a release from a mental institution. The two characters form a delicate relationship, exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and emotional healing.

The film has garnered praise from critics, including Martin Scorsese, who said, “For much too long, The Annihilation of Fish has been in limbo. It took many years and endless persistence to rescue this beautiful, delicate picture… I’m so happy that it’s finally ready for the world to discover.”

Tickets for the event are $10, with a discounted price of $9 available in advance at Highway 61 Coffeehouse. The evening will include free popcorn for all attendees.

The screening will take place at The Strand Theatre, located at 717 Clay Street in downtown Vicksburg.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, March 22
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Location: The Strand Theatre, 717 Clay Street, Vicksburg
• Tickets: $10 ($9 in advance at Highway 61 Coffeehouse)
• Free Popcorn