What We Know
Shelby Van Pelt's debut novel was one of those books that seemed to find everyone — a word-of-mouth sensation about grief, connection, and a surprisingly wise octopus that became a genuine cultural moment. Netflix's adaptation had a lot to live up to, and the casting of Sally Field as Tova was an early signal that the production was taking the material seriously. Alfred Molina voices Marcellus — a choice that brings real gravitas to a role that could easily have tipped into whimsy. Director Olivia Newman and co-writer John Whittington filmed in Vancouver, using real octopus footage from the Vancouver Aquarium alongside CGI for scenes requiring specific movement. The result is a film that critics are cautiously praising — imperfect, but warm, and anchored by a lead performance that makes it worth your time. It's streaming on Netflix now.
