Josh Hartnett is having a moment, and Netflix's Below is proof. The six-part supernatural thriller has become an instant hit for the streamer, debuting at the top of the global charts with a staggering 17 million views in its first week. It's a win that cements Hartnett's comeback and gives Netflix another genre gem to boast about.
Below unfolds in the rugged, isolated landscape of Newfoundland, where a fisherman (Hartnett) must protect his family and community from a mysterious sea creature. The series also stars Mackenzie Davis and Charlie Heaton, the latter known for his role in Stranger Things. With its blend of creature-feature thrills and character-driven drama, the show has earned a "Certified Fresh" 81% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praise it for using its limited runtime wisely, delivering a tight, thrilling ride that honors the best of the genre.
The series arrives at a time when audiences are hungry for supernatural storytelling. It follows the success of Apple TV+'s Widow's Bay, a darkly humorous horror show that swept the Emmys and drew inspiration from Stephen King. King himself even gave Widow's Bay a shout-out on social media. Now, Below is carrying that torch, blending King's influence with a dash of Steven Spielberg's signature awe and wonder.
Interestingly, Below debuted just weeks after Netflix's Spielbergian thriller The Last House and only a day after the new Carrie series, executive produced by King and created by horror maestro Mike Flanagan. That Carrie adaptation has also found success, landing at #2 on Prime Video's global chart with an 85% "Certified Fresh" score. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of King's work and the creative minds who keep reimagining it.
For Hartnett, Below is another highlight in a remarkable career resurgence. The actor, who once stepped away from the Hollywood spotlight, has been winning over audiences again with a string of compelling roles. He's currently starring in the psychological thriller Verity, which is playing in theaters, and his performance in Below is earning some of the best reviews of his career.
Netflix's latest viewership report shows Below easily dethroning the streamer's previous hits, including Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story and East of Eden. The show's success is a reminder that audiences are always hungry for a well-crafted, binge-worthy thriller. If you're looking for your next obsession, Below is the perfect dive. And if you're a fan of the genre, you might also want to check out these psychological thriller miniseries that nail the landing.
With Below dominating the charts, it's clear that Hartnett's star is shining brighter than ever. Whether he's battling sea creatures or navigating the twists of a psychological thriller, he's proving he's one of the most versatile actors working today. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other streaming sensations.
