Netflix’s new “excellent” drama that’s a “must-see” climbs up trending chart

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The new Netflix drama, Remarkably Bright Creatures, starring Sally Field, is quickly becoming a hit! Critics are calling it “excellent” and “touching,” and it’s now the third most-watched title in the UK and fourth globally on the streaming service.

The movie is based on Shelby Van Pelt’s 2022 novel and follows Tova Sullivan, an older woman who works as a cleaner. She takes in a young traveler named Cameron after his van breaks down in her town and he can’t afford to fix it.

A surprising friendship blossoms when Tova gets hurt and Cameron steps in to help with her work, all while a Giant Pacific octopus watches from its tank at the aquarium where Tova is employed.

The film features strong performances from Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Beth Grant, Sofia Black-D’Elia, and Colm Meaney. Alfred Molina lends his voice to the character of Marcellus, an octopus in the story.

The show premiered on Netflix on May 8th and has been well-received by both critics and viewers, currently boasting an 81% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

What to Read Next

Okay, so I just read a review of Remarkably Bright Creatures on Digital Spy, and it sounds amazing! They called it a “must-see” and said it really hits you with a beautiful message – that help can come from the most surprising places. Apparently, it’s a really comforting movie, but also a bit heartbreaking, which honestly sounds perfect. I’m definitely adding this to my watchlist!

According to Time Magazine, the movie Remarkably Bright Creatures is heartwarming and subtly captivating, much like its octopus character. While it may not be unforgettable, it makes a lasting, gentle impression.

Screen Rant praised the film as both excellent and emotionally touching. The Hollywood Reporter described it as comforting and heartwarming, comparing it to the feeling of being wrapped in a warm blanket with a cup of hot chocolate, and ultimately, deeply moving.

IndieWire applauded the film’s adaptation of its source material, noting its rarity: it’s uncommon to see a movie truly adapt a book, rather than simply copy it. They even compared it to the unusual case of Alfred Molina voicing a large sea creature to emphasize how rare this kind of faithful adaptation is.

According to The Travers Take, the new film features Sally Field as a mother figure to a talking octopus. While it’s full of predictable, sentimental moments, the film is described as surprisingly heartwarming and potentially what audiences need right now.

Remarkably Bright Creatures is streaming now on Netflix.

The latest issue of Living Legends, a beautifully illustrated 100-page tribute to Sir David Attenborough, is now available! You can purchase it at newsstands or online.

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2026-05-12 00:19