Netflix’s Top 10 list is a battleground where films fight for the spotlight, often with unexpected contenders rising to prominence. Just when it seemed like “Godzilla Minus One” had secured its reign, a new challenger has entered the fray, captivating audiences and stirring up controversy.
This latest contender has sparked a fierce debate among viewers, some of whom are thrilled by the fresh storyline, while others remain loyal to the mighty Godzilla, questioning if the new film truly deserves the top spot.
For those who’ve been tracking Netflix’s trending titles, recently, a dark horse emerged, toppling the Japanese monster epic from its prime position.
But in the ever-changing world of streaming, no title holds the crown for long.
In just a few days, “Under Paris” surged to the top of Netflix’s global trending chart, surpassing “Godzilla Minus One.” While the film Under Paris is not based on a true story, many people are drawn towards thinking it as one due to the nature of the story.
This new champion isn’t your typical blockbuster. “Under Paris,” featuring a killer shark terrorizing the Seine, has captivated viewers worldwide. The film follows a young climate activist trying to overcome her past while on mission to save a massive 7 meter shark, blending the suspense of “Jaws” with a contemporary environmental message.
Its unique storyline and gripping scenes have quickly made it a favorite, despite a lukewarm reception from critics.
What’s The Buzz About “Under Paris”?
“Under Paris” dives into an intriguing narrative where Lilith, a mutant man-eating shark, wreaks havoc in the heart of France. The movie’s unexpected rise in popularity showcases the power of Netflix’s diverse library and global audience.
Initially, many viewers were drawn to the film’s promotional art, which hinted at a blend of environmental activism and monster horror.
The film’s director, Xavier Gens aimed to mix intense shark thriller vibes with a storyline that speaks to today’s climate issues. This blend appears to have struck a chord with audiences. “Under Paris” had an explosive debut, quickly overtaking more traditional monster flicks like “Godzilla Minus One.”
Critically, “Under Paris” started strong with a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, but this quickly dipped to a modest 56%. One critic noted,
“We don’t go into a shark thriller with high expectations, so ‘Under Paris’ being merely good enough is plenty to warrant a recommendation.”
Another critic said,
“The bar for shark movies lies near the bottom of the ocean, so it’s no great victory that Under Paris’ Gallic riff on Jaws neatly clears it.”
This reception didn’t hinder its success on Netflix, though. Fans seemed to appreciate its unique approach to the genre, even if the critical acclaim was mixed.
Despite the critics, the film’s gripping plot and suspenseful scenes have kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Its setting in the picturesque yet eerie waterways of Paris provides a fresh backdrop for the genre. Plus, the movie taps into the ongoing fascination with sharks, which has been a winning formula for thrillers from “Jaws” to “The Meg.”
While “Under Paris” has taken the top spot, Glen Powell’s “Hit Man” has not fared as well. This film, based on the true story of a professor who poses as a hitman, received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. It boasts a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes but has struggled to climb the Netflix charts, currently sitting at number eight.
Interestingly, “Under Paris” and “Godzilla Minus One” share the spotlight for their global appeal despite being non-English films. “Godzilla Minus One” held a strong position, capitalizing on the enduring popularity of the Godzilla franchise. But the new shark thriller’s novel concept has edged it out, at least for now.
Looking forward, the success of “Under Paris” raises questions about future trends in streaming. Will we see more low-budget, high-concept films rise to the top? What does this mean for the traditional blockbuster?
As viewers, what do we make of this sudden shift into monster territory?
Share your thoughts and let’s see where our streaming adventures take us next!
