Netflix Dives Back into the Seine: ‘Under Paris’ Sequel Confirmed with Alexandre Aja at the Helm
Hold your breath! Netflix is officially greenlighting a sequel to its 2024 shark thriller, Under Paris (originally titled Sous la Seine). The streaming giant has tapped horror director Alexandre Aja to take the reins, continuing the story of mutant sharks terrorizing the City of Lights.
From Crocodiles to Sharks: Aja’s Reign of Creature Features
Alexandre Aja is no stranger to the world of creature features. His previous work includes the remake of The Hills Have Eyes, the aquatic horror Piranha 3D and the critically acclaimed Crawl, which pitted a father and daughter against hungry crocodiles during a hurricane. He most recently directed Never Let Go, starring Halle Berry. This experience makes him a natural fit for Under Paris 2, promising a thrilling and suspenseful continuation of the original’s premise.
What We Know About ‘Under Paris 2’
The original Under Paris followed marine researcher Sophia, played by Bérénice Bejo, as she battled a mutant shark and its offspring lurking in the Seine River. The film unfolded during the World Triathlon Championships, adding a layer of urgency, and chaos. Bejo is expected to reprise her role, with Vincent Roget returning as producer. The first film became one of Netflix’s most-watched movies worldwide in 2024, with over 102.3 million views.
A Shift in Directors: Gens Steps Aside
While the sequel is moving forward, Xavier Gens, who directed the original Under Paris, will not be returning. The reason for this change remains unclear. Similarly, the identity of the sequel’s screenwriter is currently unknown. Netflix has not yet commented on either matter.
The Rise of Aquatic Horror and Netflix’s Global Reach
The success of Under Paris highlights the enduring appeal of the aquatic horror genre. The film’s popularity, alongside titles like The Meg, demonstrates a continued audience appetite for thrilling shark-based narratives. Netflix’s ability to distribute Under Paris globally, and its status as the streamer’s first non-English language film to break records, underscores the platform’s expanding international reach and its commitment to diverse content.
The Ending’s Implications: A Global Threat
The post-apocalyptic ending of the first film hinted at a much larger problem. As the end credits suggested, the mutated sharks have proliferated in major river cities around the world – Paris, London, New York, Bangkok, Venice, and Tokyo – potentially colonizing the entire planet. This sets the stage for a potentially expansive storyline in the sequel.
FAQ
- Will Xavier Gens be involved in the sequel? No, Xavier Gens, the director of the first film, is not returning.
- Is Bérénice Bejo returning for Under Paris 2? Yes, Bérénice Bejo is expected to reprise her role as Sophia.
- When will Under Paris 2 be released? A release date has not yet been announced.
- What is Sous la Seine? Sous la Seine is the original French title of the film, which translates to Under the Seine.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Alexandre Aja’s previous work for clues about the tone and style he might bring to Under Paris 2. His films often blend suspense, practical effects, and compelling character development.
Stay tuned for more updates on Under Paris 2 as they become available. What are your predictions for the sequel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
