A French-language original, Under Paris, has taken Netflix by storm, bringing a unique twist to the shark movie genre. Directed by Xavier Gens, it delivers a nail-biting narrative that reignites our fascination with apex predators.
Bérénice Bejo stars as Sophia, a dedicated scientist who teams up with Sergeant Adil Faez, portrayed by Nassim Lyes, to tackle the threat posed by Lilith, a giant mako shark. The build-up is nothing short of intense as this formidable duo attempts to protect Parisian waters.
Comparison to Jaws
The film draws clear inspiration from Jaws, yet stands out with its distinct setting and unpredictable storyline. Early viewers have called it the French Jaws
, acknowledging its homage while appreciating its fresh perspective.
Oscar nominee Bérénice Bejo’s portrayal of Sophia enriches the story with a combination of resilience and intelligence. Critics have noted her compelling performance as one of the highlights of the film.
Critics’ Takes
The reactions have been diverse, mirroring the movie’s bold approach. I was actually liking it until the end and it’s one of the worst endings I’ve seen!
said an anonymous viewer, offering a glimpse into the polarizing opinions among audiences.
Another reviewer praised the film’s blend of surreal wit and deadpan humour, creating a unique cinematic experience despite pacing challenges.
Plot Overview
The storyline kicks off with scientist Sophia discovering that a massive shark has made its way from African waters to France. As it terrorizes Parisians, she collaborates with Sergeant Adil Faez to neutralize the threat before it disrupts a significant sporting event on the Seine.
The tension culminates in an outlandish yet gripping finale that compels viewers to keep watching. Despite some moments where pacing falters, Under Paris keeps audiences on the edge with vibrant characters and unexpected twists.
Viewer Reactions
The movie has spurred heated debates online. One comment encapsulated this perfectly: Never [seen] so many different opinions on one film, so is it bad or good[?] Lol.
This reflects both its divisive nature and ability to engage viewers in passionate discussions about its merits and flaws.
Final Thoughts
Under Paris‘s realistic cinematography and gripping action scenes provide some notable highlights amidst mixed reviews. Its attempt to capture the fear of the unknown beneath urban waters makes for a fascinating watch.
If you appreciate smartly executed horror-thrillers and are eager for something beyond the usual fare, Under Paris deserves your attention—as long as you don’t mind wading through its more controversial elements.
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