“Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” is a French action-horror film released in 2024. Directed by Xavier Gens, who co-wrote it with Yannick Dahan, Maud Heywang, and Yaël Langmann, the movie takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the iconic city of Paris and other captivating locations. Starring Bérénice Bejo as marine biologist Sophia Assalas, the story revolves around a giant shark that terrorizes Paris. This article delves into the diverse and picturesque filming locations that brought this thrilling tale to life.
What Is “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” About?
“Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” follows the gripping adventure of marine researcher Sophia Assalas, played by Bérénice Bejo. After a tragic encounter with a dangerous shortfin mako shark named Lilith near the Great Pacific garbage patch, Sophia is left injured and grieving. Three years later, she is drawn back into action when Lilith’s tracking beacon shows the shark has made its way to Paris. Amidst growing panic in the city, Sophia teams up with police diver Adil to stop the deadly shark. Their mission leads them to the catacombs of Paris, where they discover horrifying truths about Lilith’s offspring. The film’s dramatic climax unfolds as explosions flood Paris, threatening river cities worldwide.
Filming Locations
Paris, France
Paris, the vibrant and historic capital of France, serves as the primary setting for “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)”. The city’s timeless charm, rich history, and iconic landmarks provide a perfect backdrop for the film’s thrilling narrative. The filmmakers utilized various locations in Paris to capture the essence of the city’s beauty and terror.
Which Key Paris Locations Were Used?
The Seine River: The Seine is central to the film, with several intense scenes shot along its banks. The film captures the river’s serene beauty and transforms it into a site of terror as the giant shark wreaks havoc. Night scenes along the Seine were shot using advanced lighting techniques, adding to the film’s dramatic atmosphere.
The Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, plays a pivotal role in the film. Its towering presence over Paris serves as a dramatic backdrop in several key scenes.
The Catacombs of Paris: The film crew gained special permissions to shoot in the catacombs, a network of underground tunnels and ossuaries beneath the city. The catacombs, known for their eerie ambiance, provided a chilling setting for the climactic encounters between Sophia and the shark. Fans of the film can explore these iconic sites through guided tours, experiencing the chilling backdrop firsthand.
Paris Aquarium, 5 Av. Albert de Mun: Some of the underwater scenes and close-up shots of marine life were filmed at the Paris Aquarium. This location helped in creating realistic and immersive underwater sequences that are crucial to the film’s plot.
Ciudad de la Luz, Alicante, Comunidad Valenciana, Spain
Ciudad de la Luz in Alicante, Spain, was chosen for its state-of-the-art film production facilities and stunning coastal scenery. The film utilized the versatile studio spaces and picturesque landscapes of Alicante to recreate various settings.
What Makes Alicante a Unique Filming Location?
Beaches and Coastal Views: Alicante’s sandy beaches and coastal views were ideal for scenes depicting Sophia’s initial encounter with the shark near the Great Pacific garbage patch. The scenic beauty of Alicante’s coastlines adds to the visual appeal of these sequences.
Historic Sites and Architecture: The historic architecture and charming streets of Alicante’s old town provided a beautiful backdrop for scenes requiring a blend of modernity and antiquity. Visitors can explore these locations through guided tours, enjoying the quaint streets and cultural richness of the area.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, was chosen for its grand architecture and cultural depth, adding a layer of sophistication and historical richness to the film. The city’s iconic landmarks and stunning visuals contribute to the overall atmosphere of “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)”.
Which Notable Locations in Brussels Were Used?
The Grand Place: The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features prominently in the film with its ornate guildhalls and the majestic Town Hall. This location adds a sense of grandeur and historical significance to the movie.
The Royal Palace Gardens: The tranquil gardens of the Royal Palace of Brussels offer a serene escape within the bustling city, providing a perfect contrast to the film’s intense and action-packed sequences.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Under Paris (Sous la Seine)
Q: Where was “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” filmed?
A: “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” was filmed in several notable locations across Europe, primarily in Paris, France. Key scenes were shot around iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the Catacombs of Paris. Additional filming took place in Ciudad de la Luz, Alicante, Spain, where studio scenes and coastal views were captured, and in Brussels, Belgium, which provided grand architectural settings for various parts of the film.
Q: Which other European cities were used as filming locations for “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)”?
A: Apart from Paris, “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” was filmed in:
- Ciudad de la Luz, Alicante, Spain: Known for its state-of-the-art studio spaces and stunning coastal views.
- Brussels, Belgium: Featured grand architectural landmarks like the Grand Place and the Royal Palace gardens, which added historical depth to the film’s setting.
Q: When was “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” released?
A: “Under Paris (Sous la Seine)” was released on Netflix on June 5, 2024.
