Remarkably Bright Creatures

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Remarkably Bright Creatures

PG-13

May 2026

1h 51m

Drama

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Popcornmeter

85%

Tomatometer

71 Reviews

90%

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1,000+ Ratings

A widow who works at a local aquarium finds joy again when she forms an unlikely bond with a giant Pacific octopus and a wayward young man who comes to town in search of family. Together, they uncover a mystery that will lead them to a life-changing discovery and restore their sense of wonder.

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Critics Consensus

Grounded by a characteristically wonderful Sally Field, Remarkably Bright Creatures is a sweet melodrama that tugs the heartstrings with admirable restraint.

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Robert Levin

Newsday

May 11

3/4

Wonderful acting and a touching story. What more could you need?

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Lindsey Bahr

Associated Press

May 11

2.5/4

Its impact may even sneak up on you, not even for the mechanics of the big ending which is a bit of an eyeroll, but simply watching Tova and Cameron find their own emotional catharsis. Luckily, in the comfort of your home, the tissues will be nearby.

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Matt Zoller Seitz

RogerEbert.com

May 10

When the film escapes the confinement tank of its numerous hand-me-down cliches, you’re happy to follow the water trail to see where it leads.

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James Croot

The Post NZ

Jun 28

Between the sharp script, a spot-on ratio of laughs to tears, fabulous use of British Columbian scenery and a trio of pitch-perfect performances, you’ll be more than glad when you find this.

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Asia Frey

Lagniappe (Mobile, AL)

Jun 15

Sally Field anchors the lovable adaptation of the heartwarming novel "Remarkably Bright Creatures," a sentimental story about a no-nonsense older lady, a feckless young man and several twists of fate... it's a little cheesy but basically lovely.

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Mini Anthikad-Chhibber

The Hindu

Jun 9

Sally Field brings gravity and grace to this adaptation of Shelby Van Pelt’s 2022 novel, making it a tender, uneven but often rewarding film about grief, connection, and an unusually intelligent octopus

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David L

@RT25500223 12h

I had read the fascinating book and was looking forward to the movie adaptation. It did not disappoint. Sally Field was remarkable: engaging and nuanced -- and engineered this uplifting story with wit, empathy and energy. Really enjoyed it

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Joe H

@Joss2316084 1d

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Remarkably Bright Creatures is a heartfelt and charming film that delivers plenty of emotional moments without becoming overly sentimental. The story moves at a gentle pace, allowing its characters to grow naturally, and the themes of grief, friendship, and second chances are handled with sincerity. Sally Field gives a wonderful performance, bringing warmth and quiet strength to the film. The supporting cast adds plenty of heart, and the movie's unique premise keeps it engaging throughout. While the pacing occasionally drags and a few story beats feel predictable, the emotional payoff makes the journey worthwhile. It's a touching adaptation that left me with a smile and reminded me that hope can be found in the most unexpected places.

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Steve C

@RT69145340 1d

Really enjoyed it. Very sweet move with solid performances. Based on a great book which really helps. Good Saturday Night Watch.

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Landon J

@Minxsykitty 2d

Pretty sweet movie. Octopus CGI/Voiceover lowkey kinda cringe tho. SHOULD have seen the damn ending coming but didn't. Major Hallmark vibes here. Not bad at all, could be about 20 minutes shorter.

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Alfreda Z

@Alfie872 4d

This is one of my favorite books of all time. I just finished watching the movie on Netflix. It didn’t disappoint. It’s such a beautiful, touching, heartfelt movie. Have some tissues nearby when you watch it. Sally Field is a national treasure and is perfect as Tova. Lewis Pullman is fantastic as Cameron. Alfred Molina is amazing as Marcellus.

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J M

@JMovie47 6d

Fabulous movie! A return to the kind of movies that were once made. A good story! Great acting! Good writing! Feel-good moments! Yay! Sally Field is excellent, but then, she always is. Set in a small-town fishing village in the Pacific NW, it's where you'd want to live if you were looking for small-town coastal life. Thoroughly enjoyed.

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Olivia Newman

Director

Sally Field

Tova

Lewis Pullman

Cameron

Colm Meaney

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Remarkably Bright Creatures: Trailer 1

2:10

Remarkably Bright Creatures: Teaser

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Synopsis

A widow who works at a local aquarium finds joy again when she forms an unlikely bond with a giant Pacific octopus and a wayward young man who comes to town in search of family. Together, they uncover a mystery that will lead them to a life-changing discovery and restore their sense of wonder.

Director: Olivia Newman
Producer: Bryan Unkeless, Peter Craig, David Levine
Screenwriter: Olivia Newman, John Whittington
Distributor: Netflix
Production Co: Netflix Studios
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): May 8, 2026, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): May 8, 2026
Runtime: 1h 51m
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Aspect Ratio: Flat (1.85:1)