Netflix has just released the official trailer for Remarkably Bright Creatures, a heartfelt adaptation of the bestselling novel by Shelby Van Pelt. Watch the trailer above, then read on for everything you need to know about the film.

Sally Field Befriends an Octopus in First Images from Remarkably Bright Creatures (Exclusive)

What is Remarkably Bright Creatures About?
In essence, Remarkably Bright Creatures is a story about grief, connection, and the unexpected ways in which humans and creatures can find each other again.

The film follows Tova, a widow working at a local aquarium. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she forms a strange bond with Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus. Meanwhile, a young man named Cameron arrives in town to search for answers about his family, and their stories begin to intertwine.

And yes, the octopus might just be the smartest character in the whole story.

Cast, Characters, and Why Sally Field Signed On
Two-time Oscar winner Sally Field (Norma Rae, Mrs. Doubtfire, Lincoln) takes on the role of Tova, bringing her signature warmth to a character shaped by years of loss. Field shared with People magazine earlier this year that she was immediately drawn to the script after producer Bryan Unkeless gave her the manuscript of the novel before its release.

“I read four chapters and said, ‘Yes, we need to get this book,’” Field said. She also explained what attracted her to the story, calling it “surprising and affirming of life’s value,” and describing it as “a tribute to life, creatures, and the connection people have with them.”

Field continued, “We worked tirelessly to refine the script. Even during filming, we kept editing, changing, and allowing the script space to evolve and exist outside the book. It was a long journey.”

She stars alongside Lewis Pullman (Thunderbolts, Top Gun: Maverick), who plays Cameron, a rebellious young man searching for his family. Field also praised her co-star, telling People, “I auditioned with a few other young actors, but as soon as Lewis walked in, as soon as I saw him, I knew he was the one.”

She added, “He’s not only a brilliant, funny, and talented actor… to me, he is the embodiment of that character.”

Marcellus is voiced by Alfred Molina, whose voice fits perfectly for a character who is both a cantankerous observer and a quiet detective, capturing attention in every scene.

The supporting cast includes Colm Meaney, Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Beth Grant, and Sofia Black-D’Elia.

The Creative Team Behind the Film
Behind the camera, Olivia Newman directs and co-writes alongside John Whittington (The Lego Batman Movie, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and 3). Newman previously directed Where the Crawdads Sing in 2022, another beloved adaptation of a bestselling novel. Her other works include the 2018 series First Match and episodes of shows like The Last Thing He Told Me and Chicago Fire.

The film is produced by Bryan Unkeless and Peter Craig, with Van Pelt serving as one of the executive producers.

From Beloved Novel to the Big Screen
Shelby Van Pelt’s debut novel made a significant impact, staying on the New York Times bestseller list for over 64 weeks and attracting a loyal readership thanks to its mix of heartfelt drama, light mystery, and unique charm.

One of the most notable aspects of the book is Marcellus, whose perspective makes the novel stand out. The trailer shows that this spirit is faithfully carried onto the screen. Additionally, the film emphasizes emotional depth, taking a more grounded approach instead of pushing the boundaries of fantasy. It uses the unusual friendship between the characters to tell a more human story about loneliness, second chances, and finding connection in unexpected places.

Release Date
Remarkably Bright Creatures will start streaming on Netflix on May 8.