‘Below’ Debuts With Strong Rotten Tomatoes Score But Viewers Are Mixed on Netflix’s Sea Monster Thriller
Netflix has a tradition of releasing atmospheric genre series in the fall, and its latest offering, ‘Below’, dives deep into the unknown. Starring Josh Hartnett, the limited series features a fisherman confronting a terrifying presence lurking beneath the ocean’s surface. Since its debut, the show has sparked considerable discussion regarding its initial reception.
Sea monster narratives often split audiences, as they blend horror, suspense, and character-driven drama. Early ratings indicate that ‘Below’ resonates more with critics than with some viewers.
On Rotten Tomatoes, ‘Below’ boasts an 81% average on the Tomatometer, indicating a solid critical reception. However, the audience score is lower at 60%, suggesting a disconnect between critic reviews and viewer reactions. The series is categorized as a drama and mystery-thriller, with its first season airing from 2026 to the present.
Such a divide is common for slow-burn horror series. Critics tend to appreciate the atmosphere and craftsmanship, while viewers expecting a rapid-paced monster tale may find themselves less engaged.
Hartnett’s performance has garnered widespread acclaim. One critic described it as possibly the most mature leading role of his career, while another highlighted him as the standout in a talented ensemble. Critics also praised the series’ moody visuals, featuring thick fog, dilapidated buildings, and still waters that create an eerie, otherworldly ambiance.
The Newfoundland setting, where the series was filmed, has been credited for adding authenticity. Variety referred to the show as a gripping, exhilarating experience that intertwines horror and suspense with themes of climate crisis, particularly noting the fourth episode as especially captivating.
However, not all feedback is positive. Some reviews indicate that the story loses momentum towards the conclusion, with critiques suggesting that the series struggles to balance its multiple themes and fails to provide satisfying resolutions for each storyline. One reviewer noted that the show may have too much content for its six-episode format.
Accents have also sparked discussion, with some reviewers questioning Hartnett’s Newfoundland accent and that of Charlie Heaton, while others commended the cast’s performances. The most critical reviews compared the series to a diluted version that starts strong but ultimately falters, with one outlet stating it doesn’t measure up to the similar ‘Widow’s Bay’.
Set in Snook’s Arm, a small fishing town in Newfoundland, the story revolves around an unidentified sea creature that begins to terrorize the locals. Hartnett portrays Calvin Penney, a fisherman haunted by his father’s mysterious death. He collaborates with marine researcher Fonda Howander, played by Mackenzie Davis, to protect their community and uncover the secrets hidden in the island’s history.
The series combines monster mystery with family drama, as Calvin strives to safeguard his children. Charlie Heaton plays his son Wade, joined by Willow Kean, Ruby Stokes, Rohan Campbell, and Kaleb Horn as the Penney family. Natasha Henstridge, Joshua Close, and Mary Walsh also feature in the cast.
Something’s in the water.
Josh Hartnett, Mackenzie Davis, and Charlie Heaton star in the suspenseful new thriller BELOW. Coming October 8. https://t.co/WEdWV3DsOr— Netflix (@netflix) July 28, 2026
Created by Jesse McKeown, who has previously written for ‘The Umbrella Academy’, the six-episode limited series features contributions from writers Karen Walton, Perry Chafe, and Natty Zavitz, with direction by Jamie Childs, Helen Shaver, and Stephen Dunn. Hartnett also serves as an executive producer alongside McKeown and Jessica Rhoades.
McKeown developed the story after spending time in Newfoundland, aiming to showcase its fishing communities and coastal landscapes. Filming took place on location in Newfoundland and Labrador from July to October of the previous year.
All six episodes were released simultaneously on Thursday, Oct. 8, allowing viewers to binge the entire series in one go. Critics who viewed only the initial episodes noted that the show becomes more engaging in its second installment, suggesting that patience may be rewarded.
As a limited series, ‘Below’ appears designed to conclude within its single run. For fans of aquatic horror and small-town mysteries, it may be worth diving into, even if the finale generates mixed opinions.
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