In the new supernatural thriller Below, a killer snot-berg causes chaos for Josh Hartnett and the residents of Snook's Arm, a struggling Newfoundland fishing community. This six-part series, forged from industrial-grade bunkum, plunges viewers into a world of ancient evil, plaid, and sea hags. With Josh Hartnett leading the cast as Calvin Penney, the show delivers a wild ride that blends horror, humor, and a hefty dose of nostalgia.
What is Below About?
Below is set in Snook's Arm, a town beset by an ancient, unknowable evil. The story follows Wade Penney (Charlie Heaton), a twitchy young roustabout who runs an Airbnb for credulous guests. As Wade prepares breakfast, he warns of the deadly waters, citing a seafarin' tragedy in 1986 that dragged his family's cottage—and his muscular grand pappy—underwater. Decades later, the town faces fishing bans, economic uncertainty, and a resettlement programme. But the real terror emerges when a towering iceberg, dubbed a 'snot-berg,' brings a new wave of chaos.
The Cast and Characters
Josh Hartnett stars as Calvin Penney, the ripped paterfamilias who blurts, "Jumpin' Jesus, will ye look at dat!" when the snot-berg appears. Charlie Heaton plays Wade, whose combatively accented exposition sets the tone. The ensemble cast brings to life a community grappling with curses, mist, motorbikes, and the collected works of the Waterboys. The characters are as quirky as the plot, with shifty conservationists and sea hags adding to the mayhem.
Key Themes and Tone
The show balances horror with humor, never taking itself too seriously. The nostalgia for the 70s-90s is palpable, from the plaid shirts to the galoshes. But beneath the laughs, there's a genuine sense of dread as the ancient evil manifests in increasingly bizarre ways. The snot-berg is both a literal and metaphorical threat, representing the town's impending doom.
Below vs. Other Supernatural Thrillers
How does Below stack up against similar shows? Here's a quick comparison:

| Show | Setting | Unique Element | Josh Hartnett Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below | Newfoundland fishing town | Killer snot-berg | Yes, as Calvin Penney |
| Stranger Things | 1980s Indiana | Demogorgon | No |
| The Terror | Arctic expedition | Inuit monster | No |
Key Takeaways from Below
- Unique monster: The snot-berg is a fresh take on the supernatural threat.
- Strong performances: Josh Hartnett and Charlie Heaton deliver memorable turns.
- Balanced tone: The show mixes horror and humor effectively.
- Nostalgic vibe: The 70s-90s references add a layer of charm.
- Cultural setting: The Newfoundland community feels authentic and lived-in.
FAQ
What is a snot-berg in Below?
A snot-berg is a supernatural iceberg-like entity in the show, representing an ancient evil that causes chaos for the characters. It's a unique monster that adds a gross-out factor to the horror.
Who does Josh Hartnett play in Below?
Josh Hartnett plays Calvin Penney, the ripped patriarch of the Penney family, who reacts with shock when the snot-berg appears.
Is Below worth watching?
If you enjoy supernatural thrillers with a mix of horror and humor, Below is worth watching. It offers a fresh setting, strong performances, and a unique monster in the snot-berg.
Overall, Below is a wild, entertaining ride that showcases Josh Hartnett in a role that's both tough and terrified. The killer snot-berg is a memorable addition to the supernatural genre, and the show's quirky tone makes it a standout. Catch Below on your favorite streaming platform.