Josh Hartnett's Netflix Thriller 'Below' Plunges into Critical Acclaim

Netflix's new limited series, "Below," created by Jesse McKeown, delves into the terrifying notion of unknown deep-sea threats, masterfully blending creature feature elements with psychological and familial horror. Set in the remote Newfoundland town of Snook's Arm, the six-episode thriller offers a nuanced examination of family, legacy, and community against the backdrop of a mysterious underwater peril.

The series centers on Calvin Penney (Josh Hartnett), a seasoned fisherman whose life has been marked by profound loss. Haunted by the death of his father decades prior, which he witnessed as a child, Calvin is now a widower and patriarch to three grown children. His daughter, Mary (Ruby Stokes), has sought a life beyond their small-town roots, while his son Jay (Rohan Campbell) grapples with reckless financial choices. His other son, Wade (Charlie Heaton), remains in Snook's Arm, aspiring to follow in his father's footsteps as a fisherman. The family dynamic is further enriched by Calvin's sister, Ruth (Willow Kean), who serves as the town's harbormaster, highlighting the close-knit, community-centric life in Newfoundland.

Snook's Arm, a community whose economy primarily sustains itself on fishing and selling vodka made from glacial ice, is preparing for its designated "Come Home Year" — a time when Newfoundlanders who have moved away are welcomed back. This occasion coincides with the ominous arrival of a massive iceberg from the Arctic. Unbeknownst to the townspeople, this iceberg seems to bring with it a mysterious sea creature. As residents and tourists alike begin to fall victim to the unknown entity, Calvin finds himself compelled to partner with visiting marine zoologist Dr. Fonda Howander (Mackenzie Davis) to uncover the truth and put an end to the escalating threat. The rising body count and the growing tide of superstition among the locals are further complicated by the arrival of outsiders, including those dedicated to hunting the creature, posing new dangers to the already beleaguered town.

One of "Below's" most compelling aspects is its immersive setting. Filmed in Newfoundland, the series leverages the province's unique visual identity, traditions, and culture to create an authentic sense of place. The distinct Newfoundland accents, though delivered with varying consistency by the cast, enhance the lived-in feel of Snook's Arm. The decision to cast local actors further emphasizes the insular nature of the community, making mainlanders' presence feel like an intrusion. This deep connection to its environment allows Newfoundland itself to emerge as a character within the narrative.

The series' concise, six-episode format (each under 45 minutes) ensures a brisk pace, preventing any narrative meandering, which is a refreshing change in today's streaming landscape. While this brevity might limit the depth of exploration into some of its more intriguing themes and characters, it also means the show is at its strongest and scariest in its initial half, featuring harrowing sequences like a disastrous late-night boat trip and a tense submersible dive that evokes claustrophobia. "Below" notably subverts traditional deep-sea thrillers by evolving from a supernatural horror to a heartfelt family drama once the creature's origins and intentions are gradually unmasked.

Beyond the creature itself, "Below" delves into profound themes, including the irreversible climate crisis, forced resettlement, human nature, and the corrosive power of greed. The show examines how a grieving family confronts a decaying past, and the lengths people will go for selfish gain, as poignantly depicted in episode four, "The Ocean Will Have Us All." Ultimately, "Below" reminds audiences of the fragility of life, the impermanence of place, and the inevitability of change, urging an adjustment to new realities. Josh Hartnett delivers a strong performance as Calvin, embodying his inherited stubbornness and submerged vulnerabilities. Charlie Heaton as Wade skillfully navigates his character's desire to prove his worth, and Mackenzie Davis imbues Fonda with an endearing likability, making her scientific exposition engaging. "Below" is a captivating and unique story, blending horror and suspense with poignant social commentary, offering a satisfying and memorable experience.