Under Paris is Just Another Ambitious Addition to the Shark Horror Genre
June 18, 2024Under Paris: Paris Has Sharks Now—And It’s a Wild Ride on Netflix!
“Under Paris,” directed by Xavier Gens, offers a thrilling but uneven shark horror experience set against the unique backdrop of Paris. The movie combines elements of ecological messaging with classic horror tropes, delivering a mix of intense action and over-the-top sequences.
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Plot and Characters
The film centres on Sophia (Bérénice Bejo), a scientist who discovers a giant shark lurking in the Seine River just as Paris is set to host a high-profile triathlon. Joined by Adil (Nassim Lyes), a local police officer, and Mika (Léa Léviant), an environmental activist, Sophia must navigate political obstacles and public safety threats to prevent a disaster.
The premise is straightforward: a shark terrorizes a city unprepared for such a menace. This simplicity works in favour of the film, making it accessible and engaging for a broad audience. However, the film’s attempt to incorporate too many elements—ecological concerns, personal loss, and political satire—sometimes makes it feel disjointed.
What Makes “Under Paris” Unique
One of the film’s strengths is its ability to balance its absurd premise with serious environmental undertones. The movie opens with a focus on the detrimental effects of pollution, hinting at a broader commentary on human impact on marine life. This element, though not deeply explored, adds a layer of relevance to the narrative, making the audience reflect on real-world issues while enjoying the thrills.
Bérénice Bejo’s performance as Sophia is another highlight. She brings depth to her character, portraying a woman driven by personal loss and professional responsibility. Her interactions with Nassim Lyes’ Adil provide the film with a grounding human element amidst the chaos, creating moments of genuine connection and tension.
In addition, The film’s setting in Paris, a city not typically associated with shark attacks, adds a unique twist to the genre. The iconic landmarks and the Seine River provide a fresh backdrop that enhances the film’s appeal. The juxtaposition of the serene, romantic cityscape with the terror of a shark attack creates a compelling contrast that keeps viewers engaged.
However, “Under Paris” is not without its flaws. The film’s pacing can be uneven, particularly in the middle sections where the story meanders before ramping up to the climax. The political satire, while entertaining, sometimes feels out of place, detracting from the horror elements. Additionally, the film’s numerous subplots and characters can make it feel cluttered, leading to a lack of focus.
Direction and Writing
Gens’ direction shows his expertise in the horror genre, though “Under Paris” sometimes feels like it has too many cooks in the kitchen. With six credited writers, the narrative occasionally loses focus, especially when it shifts abruptly from ecological issues to action-packed shark attacks. Despite this, the film maintains a brisk pace, making it an entertaining watch from start to finish.
Visually, “Under Paris” excels. Gens and cinematographer Nicolas Massart use the iconic Parisian setting to create visually stunning and suspenseful scenes. The underwater sequences are particularly effective, using tight spaces and moody lighting to enhance the sense of claustrophobia and danger. The use of colour, especially red flares in dark water, adds a dramatic flair to the intense moments. The sound design complements the visuals, with eerie underwater acoustics and sudden, jarring noises that keep viewers on edge. The score amplifies the tension without overpowering the action, striking a balance that many horror films struggle to achieve.
“Under Paris” is an ambitious addition to the shark horror genre. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of “Jaws,” it stands out for its unique setting and blend of thrills and chills. The film’s occasional tonal inconsistencies and over-the-top moments might detract from its impact, but they also add a layer of campy charm that fans of the genre will appreciate.
If you’re looking for a fun, intense movie night, “Under Paris” delivers enough excitement and suspense to make it worth a watch on Netflix. Just don’t expect it to revolutionize the genre.
