Netflix's summer hit, “Under Paris,” directed by Xavier Gens, has taken the streaming world by storm. The film, which stars Bérénice Bejo as a marine biologist confronting her traumatic past, achieved remarkable success with over 84 million views in its first month. This made it the best launch for a non-English language film on the platform, topping charts in 93 countries. The film's unique premise—set against the backdrop of a major triathlon in Paris where a giant shark terrorizes the Seine—resonated with viewers, leading to mixed to positive reviews and an impressive viewership of more than 41 million in just five days.
In a recent interview with La Tribune, Bejo confirmed that filming for the sequel will commence in September next year. She emphasized that this sequel will not merely be a continuation of the original story but rather “another film, very different…but still, with a shark.” This statement hints at a fresh narrative direction while retaining the thrilling elements that made the first film popular.
Despite Bejo's confirmation, Netflix has yet to officially announce the sequel. However, director Xavier Gens previously indicated in June that discussions about a sequel were likely imminent. Given the success of “Under Paris,” anticipation is high for what this new installment will bring.
As fans eagerly await more details, it's clear that Netflix is committed to expanding its catalog of engaging international films. The evolving landscape of streaming content suggests that audiences can expect more innovative storytelling and thrilling experiences in the future.
The announcement of a sequel to “Under Paris” is both exciting and promising. The first film successfully blended emotional depth with thrilling action, and I appreciate Bejo's commitment to delivering something unique in the sequel. It's refreshing to see creators willing to explore new narratives rather than simply rehashing existing plots. However, it will be crucial for the filmmakers to maintain the balance between innovation and what made the original so appealing. If they can achieve this, we could be looking at another hit for Netflix.
What elements do you think are essential for making a successful sequel? Do you believe “Under Paris” can capture the same magic as its predecessor?