Heartwarming Pacific Northwest Film Based on a 'Best Book of the Decade' Top Movie on Netflix
Sometimes adaptations of beloved novels are a bit of a miss. But Netflix's version of Remarkably Bright Creatures is lovely, sweet, and a hit amongst viewers. Since its release on May 8th, 2026, the film has been a top movie on the streamer, and as of this week is still sitting in the number two spot.
Remarkably Bright Creatures is based on the best-selling, debut novel by Shelby Van Pelt. The book was a huge success, selling over two million copies and landing on several "Best of" lists, including a "Best Books of the 2020s" from Goodreads. It has also landed on the New York Times best-seller list multiple times since its publication in 2022.
Remarkably Bright Creatures follows a grieving widow named Tova Sullivan, who works as a night cleaner at an aquarium in the fictional Sowell Bay, Washington. Tova forms a curious and unlikely bond with a curmudgeonly, but highly-intuitive and smart giant Pacific octopus named Marcellus. Following her son Erik's death, Tova has become socially withdrawn and distant, but when she meets drifter Cameron Cassmore, she starts to bond with him as well as Marcellus, who has decided (through his internal monologue only the viewer is privy to) that he is going to help Tova.
Netflix acquired the rights to the novel in 2024 and Sally Field was quickly cast as the lead, Tova. Lewis Pullman was cast as Cameron and Alfred Molina was the voice of Marcellus, who is also the narrator of the film version. Filming took place in Vancouver, and footage of Agnetha, a giant Pacific octopus who lives at the Vancouver Aquarium, was used in the film.
Rotten Tomatoes said upon release the film was, "Grounded by a characteristically wonderful Sally Field, 'Remarkably Bright Creatures' is a sweet melodrama that tugs the heartstrings with admirable restraint." It's clear from the response and its popularity, this film is one we could all use and the message of hope and connection is completely universal.
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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 5:05 AM.