‘Under Paris’ Netflix Movie Review - Sharks in the Seine

As a fan of both shark thrillers and films that take bold, creative risks, I was eager to dive into "Under Paris," directed by Xavier Gens. Set against the backdrop of the World Triathlon Championships, the film brings a unique twist to the shark movie genre, blending suspense with the picturesque yet unsuspecting setting of Paris.

The plot revolves around Sophia, a brilliant scientist played by Bérénice Bejo, who uncovers alarming news from Mika, a young environmental activist, about a massive shark lurking in the Seine. The urgency of their mission becomes clear as they team up with Adil, the commander of the Seine river police, to avert a potential disaster during the triathlon.

One of the film's strongest aspects is its ability to maintain a tight, focused narrative. The script, co-written by Gens along with Sebastien Auscher and Yannick Dahan, avoids unnecessary complexity, instead opting to concentrate on the high-stakes tension and character dynamics. This simplicity serves the film well, keeping the audience engaged without overwhelming them with convoluted subplots.

Bérénice Bejo delivers a compelling performance as Sophia, capturing the character’s intellect and determination. Her interactions with Mika, played by Léa Léviant, are particularly noteworthy, bringing a believable and poignant element to their alliance. Nassim Lyes as Adil adds a layer of rugged reliability, making the trio's effort to combat the shark both credible and thrilling.

The direction by Gens is adept, balancing suspenseful underwater sequences with moments of sheer panic on the surface. His experience in the thriller genre shines through, crafting scenes that are both visually striking and emotionally charged. The choice to set the film during a major sporting event adds a layer of realism and immediacy, making the audience feel the impending threat as the athletes unknowingly swim into danger.

Visually, "Under Paris" is impressive. The cinematography captures the contrast between the beauty of Paris and the lurking menace beneath the Seine’s waters. The special effects are used sparingly but effectively, ensuring that the shark’s presence is always felt, even when it's not on screen. This subtlety enhances the overall tension, keeping viewers on edge throughout the film.

However, the film is not without its flaws. Some of the dialogue can feel a bit stilted, and certain plot points are predictable, adhering closely to established genre conventions. While the character development of the main trio is solid, secondary characters often fall into cliché, which occasionally detracts from the overall immersion.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "Under Paris" is a captivating addition to the shark thriller genre. It doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it doesn't need to. Its strength lies in its execution and the fresh setting. By bringing terror to the familiar and beloved city of Paris, Gens creates a unique atmosphere that distinguishes the film from its predecessors.

In conclusion, "Under Paris" is a thrilling watch that combines the best elements of suspense and action with a unique Parisian twist. The film’s well-paced narrative, strong performances, and effective direction make it a standout entry in the genre. While it may not break new ground, it delivers exactly what fans of shark movies crave: edge-of-your-seat excitement and a compelling, if familiar, story. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the genre or just looking for an entertaining thriller, "Under Paris" is well worth your time this summer.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times