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Alfred Molina voices an octopus in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures

Alfred Molina voices an octopus in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures
source: gettyimages
April 9, 2026

Alfred Molina, best known for transforming into Doctor Octopus in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man films, takes on a very different role in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures. Instead of donning mechanical tentacles, Molina lends his voice to Marcellus, a brilliantly intelligent Giant Pacific octopus central to the film’s heart.

The project adapts Shelby Van Pelt’s 2022 debut novel, centering on an unlikely friendship between a grieving widow and a sea creature. Sally Field portrays Tova, the widow, with Lewis Pullman stepping in as Cameron, a wayward musician who crosses paths with Tova and the aquarium’s resident cephalopod.

Synopsis at a glance: Tova, reeling from loss, forms an unusual bond with Marcellus, who lives at the aquarium where she works. Unbeknownst to her, the octopus is on a quiet mission to unravel a mystery that promises to heal her wounded heart and spark a life-changing discovery.

Remarkably Bright Creatures is slated to premiere on Netflix on May 8. Fans have already noted the humorous coincidence of Molina voicing an octopus, recalling his Doc Ock days and prompting a flurry of playful comments about typecasting.

“I just realised Alfred Molina is voicing an octopus,” one commenter observed, while another added, “Cannot believe Alfred Molina is once again playing an octopus.” A third quip read, “Alfred Molina? An octopus? Typecasting.” As one fan joked, “If I had a nickel for every time Alfred Molina played an Octopus-themed character, I’d have two nickels.”

While you count down to the film’s release, you can also explore upcoming streaming titles and our 2026 movie release calendar to see what else is headed your way.

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