The cinematic adaptation of the captivating octopus-themed novel has completed its star-studded ensemble. Lewis Pullman, Colm Meaney, and Joan Chen have elegantly joined the ranks of Sally Field in Netflix's adaptation of "Remarkably Bright Creatures," the wildly acclaimed novel penned by Shelby Van Pelt, whose popularity has soared to astronomical heights—remaining on the New York Times best-seller list for an astonishing 64 weeks.
Also lending their talents to this esteemed production are Kathy Baker (renowned for her role in "Picket Fences"), Beth Grant (a standout in "Little Miss Sunshine" and "No Country For Old Men"), and Sofia Black D’Elia, the rising star of "Single Drunk Female." Olivia Newman, celebrated for her directorial prowess in "Where the Crawdads Sing," is at the helm of this feature, currently under production in the picturesque landscapes of Vancouver.
The novel weaves a tale of an unprecedented bond between Tova, a lonely elderly widow who toils as a janitor at an aquarium, and Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus residing within the same facility. Despite their seemingly disparate worlds, Tova and the temperamental cephalopod forge an unlikely friendship. Unbeknownst to Tova, Marcellus harbors a mission to unravel a mystery that will mend the widow's broken heart and steer her towards a transformative discovery.
Released by Ecco in the spring of 2022, the book quickly garnered a cult-like following through word-of-mouth, ultimately ascending to become the top-selling book of 2023, according to various book-tracking publications. With over 2 million copies sold and at least 30 print runs, it has earned the endearing moniker of "that octopus book."
Bryan Unkeless and Peter Craig of Night Owl, alongside David Levine of Anonymous Content, are producing the adaptation. Among the executive producers are Alyssa Rodrigues of Night Owl, Tony Lipp of Anonymous Content, Erika Hampson, as well as Newman and Van Pelt.
Pullman, who recently starred in New Line's adaptation of Stephen King's "Salem's Lot" and appeared alongside Josh Brolin in "Outer Range" and Tom Cruise in "Top Gun: Maverick," will next be seen as part of the ensemble cast of Marvel's highly anticipated "Thunderbolts," premiering on May 2. He is represented by CAA and Anonymous Content.
Irish actor Meaney, whose starring roles in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" cemented his status as a Hollywood legend, currently stars in the European crime series "Safe Harbor." He is represented by IAG, Liebman Entertainment, Accelerate, and Brecheen Feldman.
Chen, who graced the small screen in FX's "A Murder at the End of the World" and will appear in the upcoming remake of "The Wedding Banquet" premiering on April 18, is represented by Anonymous Content.
Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award-winner Baker is represented by Paradigm and Berwick & Kovacik, while D’Elia is represented by CAA and Brookside Artist Management. Newman is represented by WME and Untitled Entertainment, and Whittington by Verve and Untitled.
This star-laden adaptation promises to bring the enchanting tale of Tova and Marcellus to life, captivating audiences with its heartwarming narrative and breathtaking visuals.
