If you’ve been longing for another shark movie that rivals “The Meg,” your wait is over. Netflix is bringing their French fish-themed thriller “Under Paris” to the platform. So grab your dive gear and let’s dive into this latest aquatic adventure!
Plot Summary
It’s summer 2024, and Paris is hosting the World Triathlon Championships on the Seine for the first time. However, the excitement turns into a nightmare when it’s discovered that a massive shark is lurking in the water. A determined scientist teams up with the River Police to prevent a potential disaster at the heart of the city. Unlike some tornado-themed shark films, “Under Paris” attempts to deliver more convincing graphics initially, though they become less believable as the movie progresses.
Characters and Performances
The film features a classic setup for a cheesy thriller. Sophia, the knowledgeable scientist, struggles to be heard by the macho and dismissive police force. Adding to the tension is an image-obsessed politician who refuses to heed any warnings that might spoil the city’s celebrations. Meanwhile, well-meaning activists inadvertently contribute to the chaos.
The ensemble cast delivers performances that fit perfectly within the realm of exaggerated, low-budget action flicks. While the characters’ actions often defy logic, they contribute to the film’s humor and entertainment value.
Visual and Special Effects
Let’s address the graphics: they range from somewhat convincing to outright unconvincing. The corny pseudo-drama surrounding the shark and the humans’ reactions is a consistent element throughout the film. Despite numerous attacks, the water rarely shows signs of blood, making it one of those movies where you simply go along with the implausibility.
The bodily destruction scenes are simultaneously humorous and gross. The quick shots of wounds mean the effects and makeup don’t need to be highly detailed, and often, they aren’t.
Pacing and Direction
The story maintains a sense of urgency due to the impending triathlon, ensuring the plot moves quickly with little downtime for boredom. Directed by Xavier Gens, known for his work on “Frontier(s)” and “Hitman,” the film tries to capture energy, havoc, and action. However, reliance on a CGI-heavy villain shifts the tone from chilling to absurdly silly.
Gens manages to keep the viewer engaged with over-the-top sequences and unintentionally comedic moments. The movie thrives on its ridiculousness, turning potential shortcomings into sources of amusement.
Overall Impressions
“Under Paris” isn’t a good movie by traditional standards, but it is entertaining and fun. It delivers wild and turbulent rampages, exaggerated tense situations, and moments of absurdity that will put a smile on your face. While the graphics are unconvincing and the use of blood inconsistent, the film compensates with its commitment to over-the-top thrills.
As long as you dive into “Under Paris” with the right expectations, you can enjoy some good, mindless entertainment. There’s no sex or nudity, plenty of profanity, and a ton of violence. I give “Under Paris” two out of five couches. It’s not a dead fish, but it could begin to smell like one.
Recommendation
For fans of absurd animal-themed horrors, “Under Paris” is worth a watch. Avoid the “Sharknado” series, which tends to be dull, but definitely give “VelociPastor” a try. It knows exactly what it is and fully embraces its low-budget cheese.
If you’re in the mood for silly action and anarchic carnage, “Under Paris” might just be the perfect summer flick for you. Dive in with a sense of humor, and you might find yourself enjoying the ride.