Netflix's new six-part supernatural thriller Below is now streaming, with early viewers calling it the weekend's 'easiest' and must-watch binge. All episodes landed on the platform on October 8.
Comparisons to Stranger Things and Widow's Bay
The series has already drawn comparisons to Stranger Things and Apple TV+'s The Widow's Bay. It arrives amid a busy release period, including Prime Video's adaptation of Stephen King's Carrie and Netflix's own period drama East of Eden.
With just six episodes, each running between 37 and 47 minutes, Below is positioned as a quick binge. The cast is led by Josh Hartnett, known for The Trap, Oppenheimer, and 30 Days of Night, alongside Stranger Things alum Charlie Heaton.
Plot and Early Reception
Hartnett plays Calvin Penney, a stubborn fisherman in a small Newfoundland town still haunted by his father's mysterious death. As he struggles to keep his livelihood, strange occurrences on the water threaten his community. An unidentified sea creature terrorises the town, prompting Calvin to team up with a marine researcher to protect his family, including his son Wade, played by Heaton.
Across its six episodes, the series blends local myth, suspense, humour, and horror tropes to explore family, community, and change. Early reviews give it a 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes at the time of writing.
Critic Verdicts and Finale Questions
One critic called it 'definitely recommended,' praising its mystery, cast, and scenery. Another labelled it the 'ultimate replacement' for Widow's Bay, saying viewers will be 'totally gripped.'
Some reviewers have questioned the ending, with one noting the show 'shines brightest in making you feel empathy for its main characters.' Another warned the story 'wouldn't be able to operate below the radar a second time.' Below is streaming on Netflix now.
