Josh Hartnett Stars as Fisherman Battling a Mysterious Sea Creature in Netflix's New Series 'Below'

Netflix has officially released the trailer for its upcoming six-part limited drama series, 'Below,' a suspenseful thriller set to captivate audiences. The series is slated for a global launch on the streaming giant on October 8, 2026, after making its world premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). TIFF, established in 1976, is one of the largest public film festivals in the world, renowned for showcasing both established and emerging cinematic talent.

At the heart of 'Below' is Josh Hartnett, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in "Pearl Harbor" and "Black Hawk Down." Hartnett portrays Calvin Penney, a resilient and somewhat stubborn fisherman hailing from a small Newfoundland community. His character is deeply affected by the unresolved, mysterious death of his father, which occurred decades prior, casting a long shadow over his life and the town. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the tranquil coastal waters are disrupted by the appearance of a terrifying, unidentified sea creature. This menacing presence begins to terrorize the local fishing grounds, forcing Calvin out of his quiet life and into a desperate fight for survival.

To combat this unprecedented threat, Calvin must join forces with a visiting marine researcher, brought to life by Mackenzie Davis, an actress recognized for her work in "Station Eleven" and "Blade Runner 2049." Together, they embark on a perilous mission to protect Calvin's son, Wade, played by Charlie Heaton of "Stranger Things" fame, and the entire community. Their efforts are a race against time to unravel the island's deeply buried secrets, which may hold the key to understanding and defeating the creature before its destructive presence escalates further. The series is the brainchild of creator Jesse McKeown, whose previous work includes "The 4400." McKeown aims to intricately weave together elements of local Newfoundland mythology, gripping suspense, and moments of unexpected humor. This blend is intended to explore profound themes of family bonds, the strength of community in the face of adversity, and the inevitable currents of societal change.

The ensemble cast further bolsters the series' appeal, featuring talents such as Ruby Stokes, Kaleb Horn, Rohan Campbell, and Willow Kean, adding depth and diverse perspectives to the narrative. The executive production team is a formidable group, including Jessica Rhoades, Chris Hatcher, Jamie Childs, Louise Sutton, Sharon Hall, and Josh Hartnett himself, ensuring a high level of quality and creative vision. The stark and dramatic coastal landscape of Newfoundland serves as a powerful and atmospheric backdrop, amplifying the mystery and the primal struggle of a fisherman confronting the unknown depths of the ocean and its terrifying inhabitants.