Set in the summer of 2024, “Under Paris” imagines the iconic French city hosting the World Triathlon Championships on the river Seine. With thousands of tourists and athletes pouring into the City of Lights, anticipation for the event is at an all-time high. However, behind-the-scenes, scientist Sophia (Bérénice Bejo) is teaming up with the Seine’s police captain Adil (Nassim Lyes) to stop a giant shark lurking the city’s river … ready to maw and eat its way through the triathlon’s contestants. It’s an absurd premise, but one that’s extremely topical as Paris is hosting the Olympic Games this summer.
Though it won’t be winning any Oscars, “Under Paris” is the latest international film hoping to join the pantheon of bizarre shark movies from around the world. Under two hours, “Under Paris” is a breezy, ridiculous, and self-aware effort that has managed to become a polarizing viral sensation. While many critics were disappointed, finding it to be generic and lacking originality, audience members are having the time of their lives with the film’s absurdity and over-the-top nature.
The film’s success is a testament to how audiences, especially in the United States, are embracing international projects. It certainly helps that the picture highlights one of humanity’s deepest fears: underwater creatures. While it’s unclear if “Under Paris” will be considered one of the best shark movies ever made, it’s a still topical release to enjoy before the summer Olympics.
