'Remarkably Bright Creatures' Review: Sally Field and Lewis Pullman Shine in Netflix's Heartwarming Comedy-Drama
The Hollywood Reporter
In Netflix's adaptation, Remarkably Bright Creatures, nearly everyone shares the same opinion: octopuses are extraordinary creatures. They are surprisingly intelligent, can manipulate tools, and can squeeze in and out of small cracks. They can be patient observers and even sometimes play pranks on humans by spraying water to surprise them. However, in this adaptation of Shelby Van Pelt's beloved novel, the octopus Marcellus (Alfred Molina), who serves as the narrator, finds himself destined to only care about the inner worlds of two humans.
The film, featuring two reliable and charming actors in lead roles, Sally Field and Lewis Pullman, proves that this situation is not as straightforward as it seems. Field's character, Tova, works as a night watchman at a small New England aquarium and is one of the few humans tolerated by Marcellus. Pullman brings the other key character of the story to life. When the two actors share the screen, they become even more impressive and radiate a warm energy.
Remarkably Bright Creatures, while presenting an animal-centric narrative, effectively sweeps you away in a wave of emotions with its soft humor and depth of feelings as a human-centered film. The movie features a narrative based on simple yet effective observations. Marcellus begins to reflect on the similarities between himself and Tova: both love the silence of the night, and both hate the wolf fish.
Directed by Olivia Newman, the film successfully translates the appeal of the source material to the screen as a novel adaptation. The cast includes experienced actors such as Sally Field, Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Beth Grant, Sofia Black-D'Elia, Colm Meaney, and Alfred Molina. With a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes, the film is suitable for a wide audience with its PG-13 rating.
The screenplay, written by Newman and John Whittington, successfully captures the essence of the original novel that has found its place in libraries and the hearts of readers. The film reveals the deep meanings hidden behind ordinary stories, confronting audiences with unexpected emotional moments. Remarkably Bright Creatures will premiere on Netflix on May 8, offering viewers a warm and heartfelt experience.