Netflix has a new monster on its hands—and it's not just the creature lurking beneath the surface in its latest horror hit. Below, a six-episode supernatural thriller that wears its Spielbergian influences on its sleeve, has officially become one of the streamer's standout successes of the year, and it's showing no signs of slowing down.
During Netflix's most recent earnings call, the company touted several international hits, from the Mexican crime thriller Facing El Chapo to the Nordic noir Blood Sacrifice and the Danish drama The Secret Woman. But it's Below that's making the biggest splash in the English-language arena, proving that a well-crafted, star-driven story can still dominate the global charts.
A Second Week Surge
Debuting on October 8 to positive reviews, Below immediately captured audiences with its blend of small-town dread and blockbuster spectacle. The series, starring Josh Hartnett and Mackenzie Davis, follows a fisherman who must rally his community against a mysterious subterranean threat in the Canadian wilderness. It's a premise that feels ripped from the pages of Stephen King, filtered through the lens of Steven Spielberg's classic creature features.
According to Netflix's latest viewership data, covering October 12–18, Below held onto the number one spot for a second consecutive week. After debuting with a stellar 17 million views, the show added another 21 million in its sophomore frame, pushing its total to 38 million views and over 150 million hours watched. That's a remarkable trajectory for a limited series, especially one that's only been out for a fortnight.
Critical and Commercial Triumph
The show's success isn't just about numbers—it's also winning over critics. Below currently holds a “Certified Fresh” 87% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with the consensus praising its efficient storytelling and thrilling execution. “Below features the classic tropes of better creature features but uses its limited time wisely, ensuring all who dive in come out the other end thoroughly thrilled,” the site's critics note.
For Hartnett, Below is another feather in a cap that's seen a remarkable renaissance. The actor is also riding high on the success of the thriller Verity, which has grossed around $150 million worldwide. And with Below already surpassing the viewership of The Gentlemen season two, it's clear that audiences are eager for more of his work.
A Monster-Sized Milestone
While Netflix has seen other Spielbergian sci-fi thrillers like The Last House rack up over 90 million views, Below is proving that a more intimate, character-driven horror can still make a massive impact. Its success also highlights the enduring appeal of well-told monster stories, a genre that has captivated audiences for decades. For those looking to dive into more terrifying tales, our list of top horror TV since 2020 offers plenty of scares, while unforgettable movie monsters from the past 30 years are worth revisiting.
As Below continues to climb the charts, it's clear that Netflix has found a new flagship horror property. Whether it will spawn a second season remains to be seen, but for now, the series is a testament to the power of a good old-fashioned monster story done right. For more updates on Below and other streaming hits, stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot.
