Under Paris

Under Paris is a 2024 French thriller film directed by Xavier Gens. It takes the familiar trope of a shark attack movie and injects it with a unique Parisian setting, environmental themes, and a touch of personal drama. The film stars Bérénice Bejo as Sophia, a brilliant but grieving scientist who must confront a lurking danger in the Seine river.

A Shark in the Seine: The Plot

The story unfolds in the summer of 2024. Paris is abuzz with excitement as the city gears up to host the World Triathlon Championships in the iconic Seine river. Mika, a young and passionate environmental activist, stumbles upon unsettling evidence – a large shark swimming deep within the murky waters.

News of the predator reaches Sophia, a marine biologist still reeling from a personal tragedy. Initially skeptical, Sophia is drawn into Mika’s cause. Together, they face an uphill battle to convince the authorities, particularly Adil, the stoic commander of the Seine river police, of the impending threat.

Adil dismisses their claims, prioritizing the city’s image and the upcoming triathlon. Caught between a determined scientist, a fervent activist, and a dismissive authority figure, the clock ticks down as the championship approaches.

As the truth about the shark becomes undeniable, tensions rise. Sophia grapples with her own demons, the lingering grief from her past threatening to derail the mission. Mika’s youthful idealism clashes with the bureaucratic hurdles, while Adil is forced to confront the potential disaster unfolding under his watch.

A Race Against Time: Characters and Conflict

Sophia (Bérénice Bejo): A brilliant marine biologist haunted by a past tragedy. Sophia’s expertise is crucial in understanding the shark’s behavior and formulating a plan. However, her personal demons and emotional turmoil threaten to hold her back. Bejo delivers a powerful performance, showcasing Sophia’s resilience and vulnerability.

Mika (Nassim Lyes): A passionate environmental activist who discovers the shark. Mika’s youthful zeal and commitment to the cause provide a compelling counterpoint to Sophia’s weariness. Lyes brings a sense of urgency and determination to the role.

Adil (Léa Léviant): The stoic commander of the Seine river police. Adil is initially skeptical of the shark threat, prioritizing the city’s interests and the upcoming triathlon. Léviant portrays Adil’s gradual shift from disbelief to acceptance, highlighting the pressure of leadership and responsibility.

The central conflict in Under Paris revolves around the race against time. Sophia, Mika, and Adil must convince the authorities and the public of the danger lurking beneath the surface before it’s too late. This external struggle is mirrored by Sophia’s internal conflict as she confronts her grief and finds the strength to act.

Beneath the Surface: Themes and Symbolism

Under Paris goes beyond the typical shark attack movie. It weaves in environmental themes, highlighting the consequences of pollution and human interference with the natural world. The presence of the shark in the Seine can be seen as a metaphor for the disruption of the ecological balance.

The film also explores themes of loss and grief. Sophia’s personal tragedy fuels her determination to stop the shark, a way for her to channel her pain into action and potentially find redemption. The shark itself becomes a symbol of danger and hidden threats, lurking beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic setting.

Parisian Peril: Setting and Atmosphere

Under Paris utilizes the iconic Parisian setting to create a unique atmosphere. The City of Lights, known for its romance and beauty, becomes a stage for a thrilling and suspenseful story. The film showcases the grandeur of the Seine river, transforming it from a tourist attraction to a potential death trap.

The bustling city life and the excitement surrounding the triathlon provide a stark contrast to the lurking danger beneath the surface. This juxtaposition creates a sense of unease and suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Under Paris has received generally positive reviews from critics. The film is praised for its refreshing take on the shark attack genre, its unique setting, and the strong performances of the lead actors. Reviewers appreciate the environmental subtext and the exploration of personal grief alongside the thrilling action sequences.

Audience response has been mostly favorable, with viewers enjoying the suspenseful plot and the unexpected setting. The film’s portrayal of Paris as a place of both beauty and danger resonates with many viewers. However, some have criticized the pacing of the film, finding it slow in certain parts.

A Bite Out of the Ordinary: Conclusion

Under Paris is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that takes the familiar shark attack movie formula and injects it with fresh energy. Set against the backdrop of the City of Lights, the film delivers a suspenseful story with environmental and emotional depth. With strong performances and a unique setting, Under Paris offers a refreshing