Under Paris (2024): A Journey into Darkness Beneath the City of Lights
Under Paris (2024) brings a fresh and captivating take on the mystery-thriller genre, diving deep into the hidden, haunted world beneath one of the most iconic cities in the world—Paris. Directed by Agnès Girard, this film combines urban legends, psychological suspense, and supernatural horror into an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)
The story follows Camille, a young woman desperate to find her missing brother, who has disappeared somewhere in the endless labyrinth of the Parisian catacombs. Beneath the beauty and romance of Paris lies a maze of tunnels, dating back centuries, and filled with the bones of millions. As Camille begins her search, what starts as a personal quest quickly turns into a terrifying descent into darkness.
Navigating the claustrophobic, eerie underworld of Paris, Camille encounters strange symbols, unexplainable phenomena, and a growing sense that her brother’s disappearance may not be the only mystery hidden down there. The deeper she goes, the more the lines between reality and nightmare blur. Under Paris takes viewers on a pulse-pounding journey filled with twists, turns, and disturbing secrets waiting to be uncovered.
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An Eerie Atmosphere
The catacombs of Paris, often referred to as the “Empire of Death,” serve as the perfect setting for this dark mystery. The film masterfully uses these real-world tunnels to create an atmosphere thick with tension and dread. The narrow, dimly lit passageways make every scene feel claustrophobic, and the sense of isolation and danger builds with every step Camille takes.
Director Agnès Girard does an excellent job using the subterranean world to heighten the film’s psychological tension. The shadows, echoes, and seemingly endless maze of bones create a backdrop that feels both physically oppressive and spiritually haunted. Viewers will feel Camille’s growing unease, as if the tunnels themselves are alive with ancient secrets waiting to ensnare anyone who dares to explore them.
Themes of Loss and Obsession
At its core, Under Paris is about much more than a missing person. The film taps into themes of loss, obsession, and the lengths people will go to uncover the truth. Camille’s quest to find her brother forces her to confront her own fears and inner demons. As she ventures deeper into the catacombs, it becomes clear that her brother’s disappearance is tied to something much darker—something Camille may not be ready to face.
This obsession with uncovering the unknown parallels the human desire to understand the mysteries of death itself. The Paris catacombs, with their history of being a final resting place for millions, provide a fitting metaphor for Camille’s journey: a descent into the unknown, where the past refuses to stay buried.
Standout Performances
Lead actress Léa Dumont gives a powerful performance as Camille, making her character’s desperation and determination feel authentic and relatable. Her portrayal of Camille’s emotional unraveling as the search drags her deeper into darkness is one of the film’s strongest elements. Dumont captures the vulnerability and strength needed for such a physically and psychologically demanding role.
The supporting cast, though smaller in presence, also delivers strong performances, particularly in scenes that heighten the sense of paranoia and distrust. Every encounter Camille has along the way feels significant, as if everyone she meets may hold a piece of the puzzle—or be part of the sinister forces working against her.
Supernatural Mystery and Suspense
Under Paris isn’t just a straightforward thriller; it weaves in supernatural elements that add layers of intrigue. Strange symbols, unexplainable apparitions, and eerie occurrences keep the audience questioning whether there is a paranormal force at play or if it’s all in Camille’s mind.
The film smartly balances these supernatural aspects with a psychological edge. As Camille becomes more disoriented, the audience is drawn into her perspective, making it harder to distinguish between reality and nightmare. This ambiguity heightens the suspense and keeps viewers guessing until the final moments.
Cinematography and Visuals
The cinematography in Under Paris is stunning, particularly in its use of shadow and light. The film’s visuals play a huge role in building its eerie atmosphere. The claustrophobic tunnels are shot in a way that makes them feel infinite and overwhelming. Every shadow seems to hide a threat, and the few moments of brightness are often stark and unsettling.
The film also takes advantage of the historical significance of the catacombs, showcasing their architectural beauty while never letting the audience forget the darkness they symbolize. The contrast between the beauty of Paris above ground and the horror that lurks beneath is visually striking, making the catacombs feel like a character in their own right.
Final Thoughts
Under Paris is a slow-burn thriller that draws you in with its unsettling atmosphere, gripping mystery, and strong performances. The film masterfully blends psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating a tension that lingers long after the credits roll. The Parisian catacombs are the perfect setting for a story about confronting the unknown, and the film uses them to explore themes of loss, obsession, and fear.
If you’re a fan of atmospheric thrillers that get under your skin, Under Paris is a must-watch. It’s not just a film about the dark corners of a city—it’s about the dark corners of the human psyche and the fear of what we might find when we dig too deep.
What are your thoughts on Under Paris? Let me know in the comments below! 👇
