Summary
The new French survival thrillerUnder Parishas become a streaming hit onNetflixdespite receiving a whole host of negative reception. Released on June 5, the Xavier Gens-directed movie, which follows a super shark’s attack on the Seine during an international triathlon in Paris, quickly joined the ranks of the streaming services' most-viewed titles for the week of June 3 to June 9. Within days,Under Parisbecame Netflix’s no. 1 global movie, eventuallyraking in 40.9 million views and topping both non-English and English language charts.
On non-English language charts,Under Paris’shark-based premise bestedGodzilla Minus One, a long-anticipated and Oscar-winning sensation, by 26 million views for the no.1 spot. Compared to Netflix’s English language charts,Under Paristrounced Richard Linklater’s action comedyHit Manby 30.1 million views to become the no. 1 global film overall.Under Paris’performance, especially when likened to the critically acclaimed movies it prevailed over, comes as a shock becauseits achievement doesn’t reflect in its reception.
64%
34%
97%
93%
98%
Is Under Paris Really The Best Shark Movie Since Jaws?
Under Paris has surged to the top of Netflix’s streaming chart following its early June release & has drawn comparisons to Spielberg’s shark classic.
Why Under Paris Is So Popular On Netflix Despite A Poor Reception
Under Paris' Fun Premise Thrived In The Movie’s Circumstances
Its achievement does, however, line up with its premise -shark-based horrors and thrillers have long proven that they don’t necessarily have to be the best movies to get audiences hooked. Prime examples lie inThe MegandSharknado, which have been given low audience approval ratings of 44% and 34% apiece onRotten Tomatoesbut have expanded into multi-billion dollar cult franchises. LikeUnder Paris, their wild, often gory storylines catch the eyes of audiences, get people talking, and are uncomplicated to watch, making for high binge and circulation value.
On top of its entertaining premise,Under Pariswas released when Netflix’s Top 10 charts weren’t heavily inundated with competition, which made it easy forUnder Paristo capitalize on its shark-based story and dominate viewing lists. BesidesHit ManandGodzilla Minus One,Under Pariseasily outperformed movies previously released, likeSing 2,The Lego Movie, andReal Steel, or films that were not as well known across the globe. On another given week,Under Paris’performance may have been worse off, but, as it stands, it was able to thrive in its circumstances.
Why Is Under Paris' RT Audience Score So Low & What Are Critics Saying?
Critics Gave Under Paris A Higher 64% Score
Despite contributing toUnder Paris’tens of millions of views, audiences weren’t keen on the thriller’s acting performances, script, and predictable nature. Frequently, thereviews of audiences outright labeled, if not described,Under Parisas an amateur movie, as so many shark movies have often been considered. However, as alluded to before, just becauseUnder Parisisn’t technically the best doesn’t mean it doesn’t make for guilty pleasure material. The notion thatUnder Parisdelivers on its premise and promise is why critics have scored the film much higher than audiences.
Under Paris’critics have considered the shark film as one that doesn’t take itself too seriously and, in fact, hones in on its campy nature to its benefit.
Critics' approval rating ofUnder Parison Rotten Tomatoes is nearly double that of audiences.Under Paris’critics have considered the shark film as one that doesn’t take itself too seriously and, in fact, hones in on its campy nature to its benefit. For that reason, critics believe the film was not only successful but deserving ofanUnder Parissequel.Under Paris, like other shark films, may not be the best, but it is an entertaining crowd-puller, which, to some standards, makes for an excellent movie.
Under Paris
Cast
Beneath the bustling streets of Paris lies a hidden world filled with ancient secrets and dark mysteries. A group of daring urban explorers sets out to uncover the truth buried within the city’s catacombs, only to find themselves facing a series of terrifying challenges. As they unravel the enigmatic past of Paris, they must confront their deepest fears to survive.
