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Octopus Marcellus Freed as Netflix Film Scores 8/10

5/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Tova Sullivan, a 70-year-old widow, releases the aging octopus Marcellus into the ocean, ending his life at a Washington State aquarium.
Remarkably Bright Creatures, directed by Olivia Newman, began streaming on Netflix Friday, centering on the growing bond between Cameron and the octopus Marcellus.
Critics rated the film 8/10, praising its hopeful tone and the performances of actress Sally Field and actor Lewis Pullman.

History

Historical Context

Free Willy, Warner Bros.’ 1993 family drama released on July 16, cost $20 million and earned $153.7 million worldwide, sparked a global campaign that freed the orca Keiko. Over three decades later, Olivia Newman’s Netflix film Remarkable Bright Creatures revisits that rescue motif, pairing Sally Field and Lewis Pullman with an octopus, showing streaming platforms now leverage animal-centric stories for conservation awareness.

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Story summary

Tova Sullivan, a 70-year-old widow, releases the aging octopus Marcellus into the ocean, ending his life at a Washington State aquarium.
Remarkably Bright Creatures, directed by Olivia Newman, began streaming on Netflix Friday, centering on the growing bond between Cameron and the octopus Marcellus.
Critics rated the film 8/10, praising its hopeful tone and the performances of actress Sally Field and actor Lewis Pullman.

1 / 2