Based on the novel by Shelby Van Pelt, Remarkably Bright Creatures follows Tova (Sally Field), an elderly widow who works nights at the aquarium. She befriends an octopus named Marcellus (Alfred Molina). When Tova is unexpectedly injured and has to step back from her cleaning duties, new to town Cameron (Lewis Pullman) fills in. The two couldn’t be more opposite from each other, but they will soon find
Getting a book to screen adaption right is no easy feat. Most of the time, the film will suffer because of how impossible it is to include every detail into it. I read the book a couple of years ago and while I didn’t fall in love with it like everybody else did, I could still understand why so many were charmed by the story. Of course I couldn’t help but be curious to see how they would put it all together for the silver screen. I am so pleased to report that it was absolutely wonderful!
This would have been an entirely different film if not for the brilliant casting of Field and Pullman. Field was perfect as our protagonist. The emotional depth that she showed was mesmerizing. As we learned more about her character and the loss she went through, not only with her husband, but also her son, my heart broke for her. Pullman also delivered a nuanced performance. They complimented each other nicely and had an organic chemistry. Molina voicing Marcellus was a genius choice; his distinctive and calming voice helped set the tone. He was the perfect narrator! I mustn’t forget Colm Meaney’s character, Ethan. Fellow townsman who runs the local store, he was a wonderful addition to the group and provided some laughs.
While the premise may seem strange – an octopus using his wiles to bring together two lonely individuals – it totally and completely worked. In other films it may come off as cheesy or unrealistic. That wasn’t the case here because everything was handled with such care, it didn’t even matter. The pacing was slow yet deliberate and every moment was made with purpose.
Remarkably Bright Creatures is one of my favorite films of the year so far. A beautiful story about grief, loneliness and the unexpected ways that people find their way back to each other, it swept me up and refused to let me go. From the bright colors, to the stunning scenery, and the perfect casting choices, it felt magical. I wasn’t expecting this to impact me as much as it did, but I was left in tears. I have a feeling this one will stay with me for a long time to come.
Rating: ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Credits Rolling 