Lewis Pullman has been on a remarkable journey since his breakout role in Top Gun: Maverick. Now, with a starring role in Netflix's upcoming drama Remarkably Bright Creatures, a spot in the Marvel Cinematic Universe for Avengers: Doomsday, and a legacy sequel to Spaceballs on the horizon, the actor is busier than ever. But he's not sweating the pressure—especially when it comes to keeping Marvel's secrets.
From Fighter Jets to Octopus Tanks: Pullman's Latest Role
In Remarkably Bright Creatures, Pullman plays Cameron, a lost young man searching for his father in a small coastal town. He crosses paths with Tova (Sally Field), a widow who works at the local aquarium. Together—and with the help of a giant Pacific octopus voiced by Alfred Molina—they unravel a mystery that changes their lives. The film, directed by Olivia Newman, also stars Colm Meaney, Joan Chen, and Kathy Baker.
For Pullman, working with Field was a dream come true. “She's just so present and generous,” he says. “Every scene with her felt like a masterclass.” The actor admits that sharing the screen with a two-time Oscar winner was intimidating at first, but Field's warmth quickly put him at ease.
Joining the MCU: No Stress Over 'Avengers: Doomsday' Secrets
When asked about keeping plot details for Avengers: Doomsday under wraps, Pullman shrugs off the pressure. “I've been through this before with Top Gun,” he says. “You learn to compartmentalize. Plus, Marvel is so good at keeping things close to the chest that you don't even know what you don't know.” He's excited to be part of the massive ensemble, which includes returning heroes and new faces. As director Joe Russo recently noted, even the cast can't control everything.
Spaceballs 2: A Family Affair
Pullman is also set to star in Spaceballs: The New One, the long-awaited sequel to Mel Brooks' cult classic. His father, Bill Pullman, played Lone Starr in the original, and now Lewis will take on a new role. “It's surreal,” he says. “I grew up watching that movie. To be part of its legacy is incredible.” He teases that Rick Moranis's return as Dark Helmet is seamless and hilarious.
Lessons from Dad and the 'Top Gun' Gauntlet
Pullman credits his father for guiding him through the industry without pushing. “He never said, 'Do this' or 'Don't do that,'” Lewis explains. “He'd just tell stories from his own career, and I'd learn from them.” That hands-off approach helped Lewis find his own path, from the terrifying flight training in Top Gun: Maverick to the emotional depths of Remarkably Bright Creatures.
Reflecting on Top Gun, Pullman recalls the moment he realized what he'd signed up for. “We were all looking at each other like, 'We'd better buckle up,'” he laughs. The physical demands of flying in F-18s and Extra EA-300s were intense, but the experience bonded the cast. “It was the most terrifying and exhilarating thing I've ever done.”
What's Next for Pullman?
With Remarkably Bright Creatures set to stream on Netflix, Avengers: Doomsday in production, and Spaceballs 2 on the way, Pullman's calendar is packed. But he's taking it all in stride. “I'm just grateful to be working with such talented people,” he says. “Every project teaches me something new.”
For fans eager to see Pullman's next moves, the wait won't be long. Remarkably Bright Creatures promises to be a heartwarming tale of connection and wonder—and a reminder that sometimes the most unlikely friendships can change everything.
