Nautilus (2025)

Title: Nautilus (2025)
Genre: Adventure / Sci-Fi / Fantasy
Format: TV Series
Creator: James Dormer
Production Companies: Disney+, Moonriver TV, Seven Stories
Starring: Shazad Latif, Georgia Flood, Thierry Frémont, Céline Menville, Richard E. Grant, Arlo Green, Tyrone Ngatai

Overview:

Nautilus (2025) is a thrilling reimagining of the classic story of Captain Nemo, inspired by Jules Verne’s "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Unlike previous adaptations, this Disney+ original series explores the mysterious past of Nemo — not as a villain, but as a complex hero with a haunting backstory and a bold mission beneath the waves.

Plot Summary:

The story follows Prince Nemo, an Indian prince robbed of his birthright and cast into exile by the colonial powers. Driven by vengeance and a desire for justice, Nemo builds the Nautilus, a powerful, high-tech submarine unlike anything the world has ever seen. With a loyal crew, he embarks on a journey across the oceans, confronting sea monsters, sunken empires, and imperial enemies while seeking redemption and retribution.

As Nemo navigates hostile waters, both literal and political, the series reveals layers of his character—his grief, genius, and sense of justice. Each episode delves into deep-sea adventures, ancient mysteries, and ethical dilemmas, offering a darker, more emotionally grounded interpretation of the classic Verne tale.

Characters:

• Captain Nemo (Shazad Latif): A brilliant engineer and former Indian prince, haunted by the past and driven by a moral crusade against oppression.

• Francesca (Georgia Flood): A strong-willed journalist who uncovers the secrets of the Nautilus and becomes entangled in Nemo’s mission.

• Gustave (Thierry Frémont): A cunning adversary representing imperial interests, determined to capture or destroy Nemo and his vessel.

• Doctor Kaif (Arlo Green): A member of Nemo’s loyal crew, bringing science and compassion to the mission.

• Nautilus Crew: A diverse and multicultural team, each with their own motivations and backstories, highlighting global themes of resistance and survival.

Themes and Style:

Nautilus is a bold fusion of steampunk aesthetics, science fiction, and historical fantasy. It explores themes such as colonialism, justice, environmentalism, and freedom. The series is visually rich, with underwater cities, giant sea creatures, and atmospheric submarine interiors that blend high production values with imaginative world-building.

Production and Release:

Originally announced for Disney+, Nautilus experienced delays and a brief cancellation before being revived and scheduled for release in 2025. Shot in Australia and the UK, the series promises cinematic storytelling, stunning visual effects, and character-driven drama.

Expectations:

Nautilus is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and unique TV shows of 2025. With its mix of action, myth, and moral complexity, it’s not just a retelling of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea — it’s a complete reinvention, offering both spectacle and substance for modern audiences.