Story perspectives

Netflix’s “Below” Sea-Creature Thriller Debuts Oct 8

7/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Netflix will debut the six-episode series Below on October 8 2026, starring Josh Hartnett as fisherman Calvin Penney.
Netflix released a teaser on July 28 2026 that shows mist-shrouded seas and a looming sea creature.
The series will premiere at TIFF’s Primetime program on September 10 2026 before its Netflix launch.
Calvin battles an unidentified flesh-and-blood sea creature, protects his family and uncovers island secrets during filming in St. John’s.

History

Historical Context

Steven Spielberg’s June 20, 1975 release of Jaws, adapted from Peter Benchley’s 1974 bestseller that lingered on the New York Times list for 44 weeks, created the modern summer blockbuster and cemented high-concept ocean horror. Its wide-release strategy inspired later tentpole hits and generated extensive merchandising. Netflix’s 2026 series Below follows that legacy, using the same shark-terror formula for global streaming audiences.

1 of 2

Story summary

Netflix will debut the six-episode series Below on October 8 2026, starring Josh Hartnett as fisherman Calvin Penney.
Netflix released a teaser on July 28 2026 that shows mist-shrouded seas and a looming sea creature.
The series will premiere at TIFF’s Primetime program on September 10 2026 before its Netflix launch.
Calvin battles an unidentified flesh-and-blood sea creature, protects his family and uncovers island secrets during filming in St. John’s.

1 / 2