I have said a few times on this blog that I enjoy stories featuring animal characters: they can offer a uniquely helpful narrative perspective that allows for some creative freedom, and can also provide interesting and unexpected ways to drive the story forward. What’s more, the animal character doesn’t have to be the protagonist to have this effect; an animals presence alone offers incredible symbolism that can speak volumes about the human characters and the overall themes of the story. Keep that in mind next time you’re watching Blade Runner.
Todays subject, Remarkably Bright Creatures, is a film that not only utilizes an animal character in a fun and profound way, but is also a damn good story on its own merits. A comedic drama about isolation, loss, unexpected family, and the uncertain journey we call life, all centering around the perspective of a wise and justifiably cranky sea creature, who steals the show in the best way possible.
Based on the book by Shelby Van Pelt, the story follows an elderly woman named Tova (Sally Field), who works as a cleaner for a local aquarium. While there, she befriends a recently rescued Octopus named Marcellus (Alfred Molina) who is very observant his human friends conflicted condition. One day, Tova accidentally hurst her leg, and has to train her temporary replacement, a young man named Cameron (Lewis Pullman), who happens to be in town working off a replacement part for his van. The two humans form an unexpected friendship that eventually leads to some equally unexpected revelations, one of which Marcellus the Octopus is determined to bring about. And, in doing so, provide some much needed closure and freedom for everyone involved.
The film features on-point performances, balanced direction, and sharp writing. While much of the narrative elements have been done many times before, the film succeeds in being familiar yet fresh; treading past story turns in a different enough fashion to be its own thing. Its greatest strength lies in successfully being heartfelt without being sappy, a challenging balance to strike that co-writer/director Olivia Newman seems to have perfected.
The MVP award goes to Alfred Molina as Marcellus the Octopus (who goes uncredited in the film by the way). His professional and extraordinary talent elevates what might have been an otherwise lame excuse for a voice over narration. Molina brings a tremendous deal of depth (no pun intended), weight, and emotional gravitas to the whole film. And no, the irony of an Octopus being voiced by someone, who previously played a particular Spider-Man villain, is not lost on me!
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a quintessential “feel good” movie in the best way possible. It offers a relatable story with sympathetic characters and a great deal of heart. Not to mention lots of enjoyably comedic observations from Marcellus. It may not change your life, but it will make you smile.
Totally worth a look.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
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