The top 3 of Netflix’s most-watched list of movies in the US (as for Feb. 14th) is still topped by “Lover, Stalker, Killer,” “American Assassin” and “Horrible Bosses 2.” However, a new drama has entered the Top 10: “Blueback,” starring Mia Wasikowska and Eric Bana.

According to FlixPatrol, the film, which was originally released in 2022, is currently the eight most watched in the US. The movie follows Abby, a girl who befriends a wild blue groper and becomes a passionate activist for protecting the ecosystem of Australia’s coral reefs from destruction.

The film was directed by Robert Connolly, from a screenplay written by Connolly and Tim Winton, based on Winton’s 1997 novel of the same name. According to what the author said to ABC (Australia), the book “just slipped out,” as it was a “lovely experience” to write.

Blueback: Difference between the book and the film

While the film and the novel follow the same plot, there are some differences between the original story and the adaptation. One of them, it’s the change of gender of its protagonist. However, the essence of the original is still present in the movie.

One of the main messages of ‘Blueback’ is the relationship between humans and the environment, and how corporations usually don’t care about the damage their business may cause the planet.

Eric Bana in “Blueback” (IMDb)

The cast also includes Ilsa Fogg, Ariel Donoghue, Radha Mitchell, Liz Alexander, Clarence Ryan, Pedrea Jackson, Erik Thomson, Eddie Baroo, Albert Mwangi, Dalip Sondhi, and Nick Paranamos.

“Blueback” received positive reviews from critics, and it currently holds a score of 72 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. According to the critics’ consensus, the film’s narrative can feel “preachy” but the movie’s visuals and message are worth the watch.