"Remarkably Bright Creatures" (2026): A Gentle and Moving Tale

Everything that matters takes time and effort.

"Remarkably Bright Creatures" splashed out of the ocean and onto Netflix in 2026. It’s based on Shelby Van Pelt’s book. While taking care of Marcellus, an aging Octopus in an aquarium, Tova, an elderly widower, meets Cameron, a young drifter in town. Their bond helps them seek new connections and answers.

These are the movies we need more of to help remind us that there is still some good in the world. "Remarkably Bright Creatures" is a heartfelt and moving story about friendship, healing, and moving forward after loss. No matter what awful tragedies happen, keep trying, use your words, and make connections.

Sally Field read three chapters of Pelt’s book before accepting the role of Tova. Field has had an impeccable acting career. Tova is a reclusive, aging woman who avoids making connections, but wants to be understood.

Field’s role as Tova deserves an award nomination, particularly her delivery of an emotional monologue. It resonated with her character’s life story so beautifully. This was an important role for Fields, who said there aren’t enough interesting roles for older women. She was very happy to be a part of the film.

Lewis Pullman has gained more traction as an actor. He plays Cameron, a wanderer, who is still trying to figure out his life. Cameron could have easily been a one-dimensional character, but Pullman adds so much depth to the role. He makes Cameron personal. It was because of Pullman’s charm and openness to vulnerability that landed him the role.

Who says you have to be the same age to be friends? Field and Pullman arrange a compelling dynamic. Field said that the pair improvised. They learn so much from each other and slowly begin to heal.

In a unique touch, Marcellus, an octopus, narrates the tale, giving his views of the situation. Alfred Molina voices Marcellus with rich and poetic dialogue. Animals make the best therapists. I was intrigued by the way the Octopus moved on-screen.

More supporting credits include Colm Meaney, Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Beth Grant, Sofia Black-D’Elia, and several more as extras on the island. The characters are good-natured.

Olivia Newman also directed Where the Crawdads Sing. She approaches this film with a tender quality and a delicate tone. Newman’s direction deserves significant praise for its heartfelt honesty and the cast's interactions.

Newman wanted everything to be as authentic as possible. However, since they couldn’t accommodate a real octopus on-set, Marcellus was entirely CGI. Newman said that they used footage of Agnetha, a real-life octopus from the Vancouver Aquarium, to match the CGI movements.

Speaking of which, this film’s cinematography is bright and colorful. Cinematographer Asley Connor and Newman worked together closely to distinguish a realistic ocean aesthetic. It’s a pretty movie to look at. Not many films take place in an aquarium setting. Water is a prominent character of its own.

Did you know that an octopus has eight hearts? That must be why this film is so heartwarming. This is a film about connection. The themes of loss, change, and finding your way are relatable, no matter the age.

Keep living life and keep trying. Just because things aren’t going your way now doesn’t mean they always will. Eventually, we’ll find our way. All it takes is a pivot to slowly pick up the pieces and change.

I could not stop smiling while watching Remarkably Bright Creatures on Netflix. It’s a sweet and powerful story. It makes a good watch with family, friends, or with your pets.