In the realm of cinematic experiences, few genres elicit as much excitement and anticipation as the shark movie. From the iconic Jaws to the more recent The Meg, audiences have been captivated by tales of massive sharks wreaking havoc on unsuspecting cities. Enter Under Paris, a 2024 French action-horror disaster film directed by Xavier Gens. Released on Netflix, this film presents a unique twist by setting its shark-infested chaos in the heart of Paris, specifically within the Seine River and its subterranean catacombs. The premise alone piqued the interest of many, but how does it fare in the eyes of critics and audiences alike?
Plot Overview
Under Paris follows the story of Sophia Assalas, a marine biologist who, three years after a traumatic encounter with a giant shark in the Pacific Ocean, finds herself in Paris. When the same shark, named Lilith, is detected in the Seine River, Sophia is called upon to help prevent a potential disaster. As the city prepares for a major triathlon, the situation escalates, leading to a series of catastrophic events that threaten to engulf Paris in chaos.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Under Paris garnered attention for its audacious concept and execution. Critics were divided in their assessments
- Positive ReviewsSome reviewers lauded the film for its thrilling narrative and imaginative premise. The Guardian described it as one of the best shark movies ever made, highlighting its blend of horror, action, and disaster elements. The film’s ability to balance tension with moments of levity was also noted as a strength.
- Mixed to Negative ReviewsOther critics found the film’s premise to be far-fetched and its execution lacking. Concerns were raised about the plausibility of a shark navigating the Seine River and the film’s reliance on implausible scientific explanations to justify its events.
Audience Reception
Audience reactions mirrored the critical divide. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a critic score of 80%, indicating generally favorable reviews. However, the audience score is significantly lower, standing at 38%, suggesting that general viewers were less impressed with the film’s execution and storytelling.
Box Office and Streaming Performance
Despite the mixed reviews, Under Paris achieved notable success on Netflix. Within the first week of its release, the film was viewed more than 40 million times, securing the number one spot in Netflix’s global top 10. By the end of June 2024, it amassed 84 million views, making it the fourth most-watched Netflix film for the first half of the year. This strong performance underscores the film’s appeal to a broad audience, even amidst critical scrutiny.
Sequel in Development
Given the film’s success, a sequel to Under Paris is currently in development. Actress Bérénice Bejo, who stars as Sophia Assalas, confirmed that filming for the sequel is set to begin in September 2025. While details about the sequel’s plot are scarce, director Xavier Gens hinted that it might depict a completely submerged Paris, continuing the franchise’s exploration of aquatic horror in urban settings.
Under Paris stands as a testament to the enduring allure of shark movies and the creative ways filmmakers can reimagine familiar concepts. While it may not have satisfied all critics and viewers, its commercial success and the development of a sequel indicate that there is a dedicated audience eager for more. Whether you’re a fan of shark thrillers or simply intrigued by the idea of a giant shark navigating the streets of Paris, Under Paris offers a unique cinematic experience that continues to spark conversation.