Netflix viewers argue new shark film Under Paris can rival Jaws

Netflix users are urging horror fans to see the ‘absurdly entertaining’ thriller

Maddy Pigott
Thursday 06 June 2024 12:44 BST
Comments

Despite a mixed bag of reviews, Netflix’s new shark movie Under Paris is floating to the top of the streaming giant’s latest releases thanks to rave reactions from viewers.

The shark horror film has been attempted countless times before in movies such as The Shallows, 47 Minutes Down and Deep Blue Sea.

However, these efforts have always paled in comparison to the ultimate shark horror, Steven Spielberg’s 1975 classic Jaws... at least (apparently) until now.

Shared just in time for the Paris Olympic games, the Xavier Gens-directed film follows talented scientist Sophia, played by Oscar nominee Berenice Bejo, who discovers a huge shark has somehow entered the Seine river the day before the city’s renowned triathlon event.

Despite Sophia’s attempt to alert the authorities of the bloodbath that could occur, her concerns are overlooked, leading to utter chaos and catastrophe at the competition.

Viewers have taken to social media platform X to share enthusiasm for the French film with spectators calling it a “must watch” and “shockingly good movie”.

(Netflix)

One viewer wrote, “it’s basically Jaws in Paris! Seriously, that’s the whole pitch. And it’s played completely straight, without camp in that classy French way.

A second watcher agreed, commenting: “Under Paris is a blast! Great set pieces, environmental issues and smart Jaws homages”.

Another viewer added, ”Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a Netflix original this much. Fun, slightly preposterous scenario, solid performances, ecological concerns and some genuinely awesome effects work.”

Apple TV+ logo

Get Apple TV+ for £2.99/month for 3 months

Offer ends 24 April 2025. £2.99/month for first 3 months, then £8.99/month. Terms apply.

Accept offer

ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Apple TV+ logo

Get Apple TV+ for £2.99/month for 3 months

Offer ends 24 April 2025. £2.99/month for first 3 months, then £8.99/month. Terms apply.

Accept offer

ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

One fan commended the film’s production quality, writing on X/Twitter: “Remarkable, really luscious hi-def(intion) digital images with an almost sculptural use of light”.

Others praised the movie’s ecological themes, represented through the character of environmental activist Mika.

(Sofie Gheysens/Netflix)

However, some viewers were less excited by the film’s storytelling and special effects, finding it murky at times and claiming that the picture lacked originality.

One unimpressed watcher remarked: “Bad. Not as campy as Sharknado. Not as good as The Deep Blue Sea. Not as smart as The Shallows. Not as original as Bait”.

Among the raves, however, many seemed to take issue with the movie’s ambigious ending.

One fan complained: “Wasted my one hour on this, the ending is zero out of 10.” Whilst another said, “Under Paris was so good, just mad about the ending”.

Make sure you check all the films leaving Netflix this month.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in