Netflix's 'Below' Pairs Josh Hartnett with a Giant Squid in a Newfoundland Thriller

Key points

• The series is a six-episode limited series that debuted on Netflix on October 8, 2026.
• Josh Hartnett stars as Calvin Penney, a fisherman in the fictional town of Snook’s Arm, Newfoundland.
• The plot centers on a mysterious sea creature, identified as a giant squid, emerging from melting ice and causing disappearances.
• Creator Jesse McKeown, known for 'The Umbrella Academy', wrote the series, which is described as a mix of 'Jaws' and 'Widow’s Bay'.
• The show features a cast including Mackenzie Davis, Charlie Heaton, and Natasha Henstridge, filmed in Newfoundland.

Background

Netflix has recently expanded its slate of limited series, including 'East of Eden' and 'The Gentlemen' Season 3. 'Below' follows a trend of blending genre entertainment with social issues, similar to the climate and class critiques noted in earlier coverage of the series.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter’s Daniel Fienberg praised the series as a 'likably silly' thriller that effectively grounds its outlandish premise in real Newfoundland history, though he noted the creature effects were sometimes underwhelming. Variety’s Aramide Tinubu called the show 'exhilarating' and 'riveting,' emphasizing its blend of horror with human nature and climate crisis themes. The Guardian’s review was more critical, describing the show as 'industrial-grade bunkum' and suggesting the climate message was diluted by network pressure, though it acknowledged the series as 'very enjoyable' and 'hunky sea-fun'.

Why it matters

The series highlights Netflix’s continued investment in genre-driven limited series that blend entertainment with social commentary. Its reception reflects audience interest in stories that combine traditional horror tropes with contemporary issues like climate change and community resilience.

What to watch

Netflix has labeled 'Below' as a limited series, but the conclusive ending could potentially set up a second season if the streamer decides to extend it. The series is currently streaming on Netflix.