Conventional wisdom suggests that there are two main approaches to creating a shark attack film. One option is to set the movie at sea, where sharks are typically found, and focus on character development, plot, and action to create a unique narrative. The other option involves placing sharks in unexpected locations, such as soaring through the sky or swimming in urban settings. Most filmmakers who opt for the latter approach embrace absurdism and abandon realism. Netflix’s French thriller Under Paris, directed by Xavier Gens of Hitman, attempts to blend these two approaches.

Xavier Gens, along with co-writers Maud Heywang and Yannick Dahan, aim to create a serious, character-driven thriller while incorporating pulpy, gory elements involving a CG shark in Paris. Despite pushing the boundaries of believability, Gens maintains a serious tone throughout the film, resulting in an extremely silly and nonscary movie.

Best Actress Oscar nominee Bérénice Bejo stars as Sophia, a marine researcher haunted by a past shark attack. She finds herself in Paris, where she crosses paths with a passionate activist named Mika. Together, they work to save a shark named Lilith that has been tracked to the Seine River.

Under Paris draws on scientific concepts to add substance to its aquatic horror story. With references to real-world occurrences of sharks in freshwater habitats and the impact of climate change on animal behavior, the film attempts to ground its fantastical premise in scientific possibility.