Remarkably Bright Creatures

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2:10

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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J D

@JDub1 16h

Stayed pretty true to the book! Very well done!

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Paul W

@Beschlawyerpaul 19h

This is one of the best movies I have ever seen. Sally Field must get an Oscar for her performance. Do not watch this movie without tissues. The acting by the entire task was tremendous. The scenery was amazing and makes you want to move to the town where this movie was set in. I have never written a movie review but I just joined Rotten Tomatoes to express my feelings. My spouse has not cried watching a movie in 10 years but he could not stop crying.

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Ellen G

@RT56758728 1d

Beautifully told story. Great acting by the whole cast. It is so refreshing to see a film that captures and holds your interest without reverting to violence.

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jolly R

@Jelly343 1d

I loved the novel that this film was adapted from. Halfway through reading it, I read an article about this upcoming film adaptation, and that it would feature Sally Field. I was upset because I had envisioned a "different" interpretation of Tova in my mind. However, after seeing Ms.Fields in this film, I am convinced that she is indeed the perfect choice for Tova. Keep your tissue box close at hand!

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Sarah R

@RT78843510 4d

Of course it is a great movie, just I don't like sad movies.

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David L

@RT25500223 6d

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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Olivia Newman

Director

Sally Field

Tova

Lewis Pullman

Cameron

Colm Meaney

Ethan

Joan Chen

Janice

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Remarkably Bright Creatures: Trailer 1

2:10

Remarkably Bright Creatures: Teaser

0:42

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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)

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