Netflix’s new thriller is one of the year’s most bingeable shows — and it dives headfirst into the mystery

Netflix has become adept at tailoring its content to viewers' desires, as evidenced by the recent release of the thrilling six-part limited series "Below." Created by Jesse McKeown, the show captivated audiences with its unique Newfoundland setting, enigmatic sea creature, and star-studded cast led by Josh Hartnett. This distinct variation of the typical Netflix thriller deviates from conventional glossy locations, instead focusing on a remote coastal community where an unknown mystery lurks beneath the surface.

The New York Times' review rates "Below" a solid 3.5/5 stars, describing it as an atmospheric and binge-worthy sea monster mystery that kept the reviewer invested even amidst weaker side stories. The narrative follows Calvin Penney, a resilient yet compassionate fisherman from a small Newfoundland town, as he grapples with the aftermath of his father's mysterious death.

When an unidentified sea creature begins terrorizing the community, Calvin teams up with marine researcher Fonda (Mackenzie Davis) to unravel the mystery. Concurrently, his son Wade (Charlie Heaton) becomes entangled in the escalating events, and the investigation reveals unsettling secrets buried within the island and its community.

The series delivers an effective binge-worthy experience by swiftly delving into the central mystery, opening with a flashback portraying a young Calvin witnessing the loss of his home and father as something mysterious lurks beneath the water. This gripping opening prevents viewers from having to wait several episodes to understand the central focus of the series.

While "Below" effectively maintains the central mystery, the show also delves into Calvin's fractured family dynamics and Fonda's investigation, which uncovers secrets linked to the island's history and local mythology. However, not all storylines resonate equally with viewers, as some supporting characters' personal issues occasionally detract from the central narrative.

One of the series' strongest aspects is the captivating atmosphere, which distinguishes it from other horror stories and gives it a sense of place through its authentic Newfoundland setting. Nevertheless, some visual effects are not entirely convincing, particularly when characters gaze out over the water. Moreover, as the series progresses, it introduces additional plotlines and conflicts that occasionally distract from the central mystery, making the final episodes less engaging.

Despite these minor flaws, "Below" remains a compelling and enjoyable watch, providing an intriguing undersea mystery with a great setting and enough unanswered questions to maintain viewers' interest throughout. With its strong central performance by Josh Hartnett and an immersive atmosphere, "Below" is an excellent recommendation for those seeking an engrossing thriller to binge over the weekend.