Netflix has a history of dipping its toes into the murky waters of creature features, but its latest Canadian production, Below, attempts to catch something much larger than a standard jump-scare monster. Released in October 2026, the series stars Josh Hartnett as a man caught between the ghosts of his past and a literal giant squid threatening his future.
Created by Jesse McKeown, Below is a six episode limited series that clocks in at roughly four hours of total runtime. It is a slow burn thriller that prioritizes atmosphere and family trauma over constant action, making it a unique addition to the streaming giant’s horror catalog. If you are looking for a high octane monster mash, you might find the pacing deliberate, but if you enjoy eco-horror with a heavy dose of regional flavor, this show hits a specific, salty sweet spot.
A New Kind of Maritime Horror
Below is set in the rugged, beautiful province of Newfoundland. The story begins with a harrowing prologue set in 1986. We meet nine year old Calvin Penney as his family participates in the Newfoundland Resettlement Program. This was a real historical initiative where the government paid to move families from isolated outports to larger hubs.
The scene is nightmarish: the Penney family is literally towing their entire house across the water by boat. A freak accident occurs, and young Calvin is forced to watch his father drown while a massive, truck sized eye stares back at him from the depths. This trauma defines everything that follows forty years later.
The Plot: Resettlement and Revenge
In the present day, Calvin (Josh Hartnett) is a widower and fisherman in Snook’s Arm. The fishing industry has collapsed, so he survives by harvesting glacial ice for local vodka distilleries. The government is once again pushing for resettlement, a move Calvin fiercely opposes.
Things take a dark turn when a massive iceberg appears near the coast. Soon, strange things start happening in the water. A moose is found half digested, and people begin exhibiting weird symptoms: unquenchable thirst, strange scars, and hallucinations. These are eventually linked to toxins trapped in the melting ice, adding a layer of biological horror to the central monster threat.
The Cast: Hartnett, Davis, and the Accent Debate
Josh Hartnett delivers a grounded, physical performance as Calvin Penney. Much has been said about his attempt at a Newfoundland accent. While it may sound unusual to those unfamiliar with the specific regional dialect, Hartnett commits to it fully. His performance brings a necessary emotional weight to a character who is essentially fighting a losing battle against time and nature.
Supporting Performances
- Mackenzie Davis: As Dr. Fonda Howander, she provides the scientific backbone of the show, investigating the bizarre changes in the local ecosystem.
- Charlie Heaton: Playing Calvin’s son, Wade, Heaton portrays a young man struggling with ADHD and substance use who becomes the first to witness the creature’s return.
- Ruby Stokes and Rohan Campbell: As Calvin’s other children, they represent the conflict of the younger generation wanting to leave the dying town behind.
Creature Design and Technical Merits
The giant squid is the star of the show, even if it spends a lot of time off screen. The VFX team opted for a realistic approach, emphasizing the sheer scale of the cephalopod. When the creature does appear, it is effective, though some viewers may feel there is not enough “monster time” in the first few episodes.
The technical highlight of the series is the score by Mark Korven. Known for his work on The Witch, Korven uses discordant, haunting tones that make the ocean feel like a living, breathing antagonist. The cinematography captures the stark beauty of Snook’s Arm, making the setting feel as important as the characters.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Episode Count | 6 Episodes |
| Average Runtime | 35 to 45 minutes |
| Genre | Eco-Horror / Thriller |
| Lead Actor | Josh Hartnett |
| Composer | Mark Korven |
| Setting | Snook’s Arm, Newfoundland |
The Thematic Weight: Climate and Community
Below is not just about a big squid. It is an exploration of the climate crisis. The creature and the toxins are released because the ice is melting. It serves as a metaphor for how our interference with nature eventually comes back to haunt us. The show also does an excellent job of depicting the death of small fishing communities, showing the heartbreak of watching a way of life vanish.
Is Below Worth Your Time?
If you enjoyed shows like Midnight Mass or films like The Ritual, you will likely appreciate the atmospheric dread of Below. It is a series that rewards patience. While the plot occasionally meanders into family melodrama that feels a bit thin, the central mystery of the creature and the historical tragedy of the Penney family keep the momentum going.
It is a rare creature feature that cares as much about the people as it does about the monster. Despite the occasionally “silly” nature of the sea monster premise, the high production values and strong acting make it a standout for 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1.Is Below based on a true story?
While the giant squid is fictional, the Newfoundland Resettlement Program mentioned in the show was a real government policy in the mid 20th century.
2.How many episodes are in the Netflix series Below?
There are six episodes in the first season, each ranging from 35 to 45 minutes.
3.What kind of creature is in Below?
The primary antagonist is a giant squid, though the show also features ecological toxins that cause psychological and physical distress.
4.Is Below a limited series?
It is billed as a limited series, though the creator has mentioned there is room for the story to expand if it proves successful.
