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Netflix’s Smash Hit Film of 2024 Greenlit for Sequel

# The Triumph of *Under Paris* and Insights on Its Follow-Up

In early 2024, Netflix viewers were enthralled by *Under Paris*, a French disaster film that swiftly turned into one of the platform’s highest-grossing non-English films. Directed by Xavier Gens and featuring Bérénice Bejo, the film merged exhilarating action with sharp social critique, distinguishing it within the realm of creature features. Fans are now anxiously anticipating the sequel, which is in the works.

## The Synopsis of *Under Paris*

For those who haven’t seen it, *Under Paris* chronicles an improbable alliance between a scientist, a conservationist, and a police commander as they strive to thwart a mutant super shark named Lilith from causing chaos during the World Triathlon Championships in Paris. While the film’s concept may seem absurd, it was executed in a thrilling and relevant manner, echoing actual environmental issues.

Debuting shortly before the 2024 Paris Olympics, *Under Paris* capitalized on public fears regarding the cleanliness of the Seine River, which was slated to host Olympic swimming competitions. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo had promised that the river would be safe for athletes, but the film’s launch coincided with reports of Olympians suffering from illnesses after swimming in the Seine. This real-world context endowed the film with a more profound significance, elevating it beyond a typical monster flick to a keen criticism of environmental negligence.

## The Follow-Up: Current Understandings

After the tremendous triumph of *Under Paris*, which became Netflix’s second most-viewed non-English film (following the Norwegian monster hit *Troll*), fans speculated about a possible sequel. Their curiosity was piqued when Bérénice Bejo, who portrays one of the main characters, disclosed in a conversation with *La Tribune* that a sequel is in development. She mentioned that filming for *Under Paris 2* is anticipated to commence in September 2025.

Nevertheless, the sequel is still in its preliminary stages, and insiders suggest that principal photography may not begin until late 2026. While specific plot information remains limited, Bejo hinted that the follow-up will be “a very different film,” though it will still include the notorious shark that menaced Paris in the original.

Nassim Lyes, who played police diver Adil in the first film, is also expected to return. His character was pivotal in the fight against the mutant shark, and fans are eager to witness his storyline development in the sequel.

## A Submerged Paris?

Director Xavier Gens has been tight-lipped regarding the details of *Under Paris 2*, but in a June 2024 interview with *Variety*, he hinted that the sequel could unfold in “a Paris fully submerged under water.” This captivating idea suggests that the stakes will be considerably raised in the follow-up, potentially presenting Paris facing an overwhelming aquatic catastrophe.

Considering the environmental themes highlighted in the first film, it’s plausible that the sequel will further delve into issues concerning climate change, pollution, and the repercussions of human negligence. The notion of a submerged Paris might serve as a potent metaphor for rising sea levels and the worldwide implications of environmental deterioration.

## The Return of the Shark

A standout feature of *Under Paris* was its menacing antagonist: the mutant super shark Lilith. This creature was not merely a senseless killer but a representation of nature’s fury, altered by human impact. Fans will be excited to hear that the shark is set to return in the sequel, though it’s uncertain how its role will develop.

In the initial film, Lilith embodied chaos, but with the sequel promising to be “very different,” speculation arises about the possibility of the shark’s character being explored more deeply. Might Lilith evolve into a more nuanced villain, or will the sequel introduce new aquatic threats?

## A Relevant Critique

A significant factor in *Under Paris*’s appeal was its timely critique of contemporary events. The film’s release aligned with escalating worries about the environmental implications of the 2024 Paris Olympics, especially concerning the safety of swimming in the Seine River. Reports of athletes falling ill after competing in the river only amplified the film’s significance, transforming it into a pointed commentary on the fallout of environmental mismanagement.

As global society continues to confront climate change and ecological emergencies, it is likely that *Under Paris 2* will persist in examining these themes. With Paris potentially underwater, the sequel might serve as a stark warning regarding the consequences of overlooking environmental challenges.

## Conclusion

*Under Paris* emerged as an unexpected success, merging adrenaline-fueled action with significant social commentary, and fans are looking forward to the sequel. While information on *Under Paris 2* remains limited, the prospect of a submerged Paris and the

HTC Vive Focus Vision Assessment: An In-Depth Examination of Its Flexibility and Premium Cost

# HTC Vive Focus Vision Review: Adaptable Yet Pricey

The HTC Vive Focus Vision is an independent virtual reality (VR) headset designed to provide a high-end experience at a somewhat steep price. While it boasts several impressive functionalities, it also encounters fierce rivalry from other VR headsets such as the Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro. In this assessment, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of the HTC Vive Focus Vision to assist you in determining whether it justifies the cost.

## Key Specifications

| **Feature** | **Details** |
|—————————-|——————————–|
| **Display Resolution** | 2448 x 2448 pixels per eye |
| **Display Type** | LCD |
| **Refresh Rate** | 90Hz |
| **Field of View** | 120 degrees |
| **Chipset** | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 |
| **Memory** | 12GB |
| **Storage** | 128GB |
| **Battery Life** | Up to 2 hours |
| **Charging** | 30W |
| **Connectivity** | Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6E |
| **Price** | $999.99 |

## Design: Cumbersome Yet Practical

The HTC Vive Focus Vision is somewhat bulky in comparison to other VR headsets, but this heft comes with certain benefits. The headset features a hot-swappable battery positioned at the rear, which aids in balancing the weight. Despite this, it can still feel onerous and uncomfortable after prolonged use, particularly when compared to lighter alternatives like the Meta Quest 3.

The design incorporates multiple cameras for tracking and passthrough capabilities. Two 16-megapixel cameras at the front facilitate stereoscopic passthrough, while four additional cameras provide external tracking. Within the headset, two additional cameras are allocated for eye-tracking, which performs adequately but doesn’t match the sophistication found in the Apple Vision Pro.

### Build Quality

Primarily constructed from plastic, the headset feels robust yet slightly less premium in certain areas. Nonetheless, the overall construction is stable, and the hot-swappable battery feature is a beneficial addition for extended VR experiences.

## Visuals: Impressive Resolution but Underwhelming Lenses

The HTC Vive Focus Vision showcases a high resolution of 2448 x 2448 pixels per eye, which technically surpasses that of the Meta Quest 3. However, it employs older Fresnel lenses, leading to notable visual artifacts such as rays or “god rays” within the image. This diminishes the overall visual quality, especially in comparison to the more advanced lens technologies found in other headsets.

Additionally, the LCD displays of the headset do not fully meet expectations. Although the resolution is impressive, the use of LCD panels instead of OLED implies that the black levels and contrast are not as rich or realistic as they could be. Furthermore, the 90Hz refresh rate is somewhat lacking for a headset in this price category, particularly when rival headsets like the Meta Quest 3 deliver a smoother experience.

### Passthrough and Tracking

The passthrough functionality is adequate but not exceptional. The stereoscopic cameras offer a fair view of the real world, though the image quality is not as sharp as what one might experience with the Meta Quest 3 or the Apple Vision Pro. The headset supports both hand and eye tracking, both of which perform well, but they don’t reach the precision found in more high-end models.

## Performance: Aging Components

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chipset, the HTC Vive Focus Vision is beginning to exhibit signs of aging. While the headset performs satisfactorily for most activities, it may struggle with more resource-intensive VR applications in the future. This is particularly unfortunate given that newer chipsets are available that could have offered a more future-ready experience.

Nonetheless, the headset does allow for lossless PC VR via a DisplayPort adapter, making it a great choice for gamers who desire to experience high-quality VR gameplay on their PC. The lossless connection guarantees no video compression, delivering a clearer and more detailed image when connected to a computer.

### Battery Life

With a battery life rated at up to two hours, it aligns with the typical performance for standalone VR headsets. The hot-swappable battery feature offers a considerable advantage, enabling users to prolong their VR sessions without the need to wait for a recharge.

## Software: Straightforward Yet Restrained

The HTC Vive Focus Vision operates on its own software, which is relatively easy to navigate. However, the software ecosystem is not as comprehensive as what is offered on Meta’s Quest platform. The Viveport store presents a moderate selection of games, but it is significantly less extensive than the vast library available on the Quest 3.

Currently, few games take advantage of the eye-tracking feature, though this

Eddie Redmayne Talks About His Character as the Jackal in Peacock’s Remake of the Iconic Spy Thriller

**The Day of the Jackal: A Contemporary Reimagining of a Timeless Espionage Thriller**

Within the realm of espionage, trickery stands as the supreme tool. As John Le Carré noted in *Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy*, “The more identities a man possesses, the more they reveal the person he hides.” This idea is vividly illustrated in Peacock’s newest adaptation of *The Day of the Jackal*, a 10-part series that reinvigorates Frederick Forsyth’s 1971 narrative. The original tale, which focused on a detail-oriented assassin tasked with eliminating French President Charles de Gaulle, has been modernized for today’s viewers, with Eddie Redmayne taking on the role of the mysterious and deadly Jackal.

### A New Target in a Digital Age

In this updated narrative, the Jackal’s target shifts from a French political leader to a distinctly Muskian tech billionaire. The 1970s backdrop, characterized by Cold War conflicts and political killings, has been swapped out for the murky intersections of the dark web, dubious financiers, and the intense arena of global politics. Redmayne’s portrayal of the Jackal illustrates a master of disguise and misdirection, able to shed his identity as effortlessly as one changes outfits.

Redmayne’s Jackal is a multifaceted individual, a chameleon adept at blending into any setting. In the series’ initial scenes, he morphs into a hunched, aged janitor, maneuvering a mop bucket across an office space. Moments prior, he had been refining a German accent in front of a mirror, imitating the actual janitor’s voice. This knack for effortlessly adopting fresh personas is what renders him such a potent assassin.

### A Lethal Game of Cat and Mouse

The Jackal’s undertaking is as elaborate as it is lethal. In an early episode, he shoots a man in the leg — but not his intended target. The unfortunate victim is the son of a populist German politician. The true target is the politician himself, who is forced into a hospital visit for his injured son. As the politician nears the hospital entrance, the Jackal, rifle in hand, takes aim. The politician’s head shatters in a spray of crimson mist, marking yet another clean yet intricate kill for the assassin.

This moment embodies the Jackal’s fastidious disposition. His murders are not merely about squeezing a trigger; they are intricately planned events, aimed at ensnaring his targets. His plots are as finely tuned as a Patek Philippe timepiece, each move calculated for optimal victory.

### A New Era, A New Jackal

For Redmayne, stepping into the Jackal’s shoes offers an opportunity to delve into a role that is fundamentally that of an actor. “One of the great attractions for me about this character,” Redmayne commented in an interview, “is that he’s an actor.” The Jackal’s capacity to embrace new identities and transform into entirely different personas is what renders him such a perilous assassin. He is not merely a murderer; he is a performer, flawlessly embodying each role.

This modern rendition of *The Day of the Jackal* retains the essence of Forsyth’s original book while refreshing the narrative for an audience today. “The creators of this series are undeniably, in my perspective, passionate admirers of Frederick Forsyth’s novel and great fans of the Zinnemann film,” Redmayne noted, referencing the 1973 film directed by Fred Zinnemann. “When I realized it was set in the present and felt entirely new and vibrant — while still keeping the essence of the original — I thought it was distant enough from the initial work to hopefully avoid harsh comparisons and exist as a standalone piece.”

### A High-Stakes Conspiracy

As the storyline unfolds, the Jackal is engaged by a group of financiers to eliminate a tech billionaire who has engineered a software that would render every financial transaction worldwide completely transparent. This billionaire, a loathsome figure of extreme wealth and self-absorption, has drawn the ire of the elite few who prosper in secrecy and hidden affluence. The affluent cannot afford to risk their financial dealings being exposed, prompting the hiring of the Jackal for the assignment.

This narrative thread resonates with current concerns about wealth disparity, the influence of tech giants, and the opaque essence of global finance. In an environment where the wealthy and influential function behind closed doors, the Jackal emerges as the ultimate weapon — a man capable of striking from the shadows, leaving no evidence behind.

### A Worthy Adversary

Naturally, no assassin’s tale would be complete without a formidable adversary. In this instance, the Jackal’s counterbalance is an MI6 officer portrayed by Lashana Lynch. Paralleling the Jackal,

New Holiday Film Soars to Top Spot as Instant #1 Hit on Netflix

# Hot Frosty: Netflix’s Exciting Christmas Rom-Com Takes the Lead

Netflix has always been a hub for festive content, and this year, it has introduced a cheerful film that has swiftly won over audiences everywhere. *Hot Frosty*, an eccentric Christmas rom-com, has soared to the #1 position on Netflix’s top 10 movies list, mere days after its launch. Featuring Hallmark favorite Lacey Chabert alongside *Schitt’s Creek* actor Dustin Milligan, the film offers a charming and enchanting take on the holiday romance genre.

## The Storyline: A Snowman Romance

*Hot Frosty* narrates the whimsical journey of Kathy (portrayed by Lacey Chabert), a widow grappling with her husband’s passing. In a magical twist, she inadvertently animates a snowman, who then morphs into an attractive man, played by Dustin Milligan. As their connection deepens, Kathy finds herself enamored with this newfound, albeit unusual, romantic interest.

The film’s distinctive concept has drawn parallels to timeless holiday classics featuring a magical angle, yet *Hot Frosty* distinguishes itself with its mix of humor, romance, and touching moments. The supporting cast shines as well, with Craig Robinson (*The Office*) as Sheriff Nate Hunter and Joe Lo Truglio (*Brooklyn Nine-Nine*) as Deputy Sheriff Schatz, enhancing the film’s comedic charm.

## A Talented Ensemble

Although the narrative may seem like a conventional holiday rom-com, the cast of *Hot Frosty* elevates the film to extraordinary levels. Lacey Chabert, a regular in Hallmark Christmas features, infuses her characteristic charm and warmth into the role of Kathy. Dustin Milligan, recognized for his part in *Schitt’s Creek*, portrays the snowman-turned-human with a sense of curiosity and innocence that enriches his character.

In a conversation with *Decider*, Milligan confessed his initial doubts regarding the film based on its title. However, after going through the script, he became completely on board. “When I saw that it was titled *Hot Frosty*… to say the least, I had some apprehensions,” Milligan stated. “But once I began reading, I was amazed by how much deeper it is than what that title suggests.”

The film also includes Katy Mixon (*Eastbound & Down*) and Lauren Holly (*NCIS*), rounding off a cast that delivers both humor and emotion to the festive film.

## A Fusion of Humor and Emotion

*Hot Frosty* distinguishes itself from other holiday films through its mix of comedy and emotional resonance. Lacey Chabert described the film as “funny and light and lovely,” while also highlighting its heartfelt aspects. “All these characters are navigating their own challenges—be it comedic elements or more profound emotional matters,” Chabert shared in an interview with Netflix’s *Tudum*. “This movie possesses a uniquely special tone. There’s a nostalgic quality to it.”

This fusion of fun and sentiment has struck a chord with viewers, making *Hot Frosty* an essential pick for enthusiasts of holiday rom-coms. The film’s triumph also underscores Netflix’s increasing influence in the holiday movie arena, as it strives to compete with established holiday film giants like the Hallmark Channel.

## What’s Ahead for Netflix’s Holiday Offerings?

*Hot Frosty* is merely the start of Netflix’s holiday selections this season. The streaming leader has a lineup of festive films on the horizon, including *The Merry Gentleman*, which is set to debut on November 20, and *Our Little Secret*, featuring Lindsay Lohan, arriving on November 27.

As Netflix expands its holiday film collection, it’s evident that the service is dedicated to becoming a prime spot for festive entertainment. With films like *Hot Frosty* spearheading the lineup, Netflix is poised to emerge as a powerhouse of holiday cinema.

## Final Thoughts

*Hot Frosty* is a charming addition to Netflix’s holiday film catalog, offering an extraordinary blend of magic, romance, and humor. With its impressive cast and touching narrative, it’s no wonder the film has swiftly become the top title on the platform. Whether you’re a devoted fan of holiday rom-coms or simply in search of an uplifting film for the season, *Hot Frosty* is guaranteed to brighten your day.

So, pour yourself a mug of hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fire, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of *Hot Frosty*—now streaming on Netflix.

“Anticipated Launch of Foldable iPhone Expected Earlier Than Predicted”

# Foldable iPhone: Two iPhones with a Combined 6-Inch Display?

For a long time, speculation about foldable iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks has been prevalent, yet Apple has not made any announcements regarding foldable technology. As brands like Samsung have been advancing foldable gadgets into the mainstream, Apple has remained committed to its classic candybar iPhone design, moving millions of units annually. Nevertheless, recent advances indicate that Apple might be on the verge of revealing a foldable iPhone-like device, potentially in an unexpected format.

## The Foldable iPhone Speculations

Samsung has been at the forefront of foldable smartphones, with its Galaxy Z Fold lineup being the standout example. Still, foldable phones are considered a niche market, with sales that are modest compared to the iPhone. Samsung has even poked fun at Apple for staying out of the foldable arena, but behind closed doors, the South Korean tech giant likely hopes for Apple’s participation in the foldable competition. Why is that? Because Apple’s foray into the foldable sector could help validate and popularize this design, potentially transforming it into a common choice among consumers.

While there’s no confirmed announcement on the launch of Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, fresh reports indicate that we might soon catch a glimpse of what such a device could resemble. According to a report from *Bloomberg’s* Mark Gurman, Apple is creating a wall-hanging smart display intended for home use, which might offer a preview of a foldable iPhone experience.

## A Foldable iPhone Experience at Home?

Gurman’s findings suggest that Apple is producing a smart home device featuring a 6-inch display, aimed at functions like video calls, app usage, and managing smart home technologies. Though this device is mainly for residential functions, it may deliver crucial insights into how Apple could envision a foldable iPhone.

The significant detail that attracted the interest of tech aficionados is Gurman’s portrayal of the device’s dimensions: “about two iPhones positioned side by side, with a roughly 6-inch screen.” This description instantly evokes the idea of a foldable iPhone, where two displays could come together to form a broader screen.

## The Foldable iPhone Vision

The notion of a foldable iPhone is not a recent concept. In fact, many have conjectured that Apple could ultimately introduce a device akin to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, which opens up to showcase a tablet-sized display. The 6-inch smart home gadget that Gurman describes could be seen as a forerunner to such a foldable iPhone.

Picture two iPhones arrayed side by side, connected by a hinge in the center, allowing the device to open and close. This is essentially the design Samsung has implemented with its Galaxy Z Fold lineup, and it’s easy to envision Apple adopting a similar method. Some have even suggested that the iPad mini is ready to be folded, considering its dimensions and structure.

## Apple’s Strategy Regarding Foldable Devices

One prominent challenge with foldable gadgets is designing a user interface that maximizes the potential of the larger, flexible screen. Samsung and other manufacturers have been compelled to create software that can adapt apps to different sizes, run multiple applications simultaneously, and utilize the available screen space effectively. Apple will encounter similar hurdles if it opts to launch a foldable iPhone.

Nonetheless, Apple has a history of being meticulous with new technologies, ensuring they are refined and user-centric before releasing them to the public. The creation of the 6-inch smart home device could serve as a testing platform for Apple’s ambitions in the foldable market. By developing a device with a comparable form factor to a foldable iPhone, Apple can conduct experiments with fresh software and user interface concepts that may eventually transfer to a foldable iPhone.

## The Prospects for Foldable iPhones

Although it remains uncertain when Apple will debut its first foldable iPhone, the progress of the 6-inch smart home device indicates that the company is contemplating its approach to foldable technology. This device could act as a precursor to a foldable iPhone, giving Apple the chance to enhance its software and hardware prior to launching a foldable smartphone.

Meanwhile, Apple enthusiasts will need to be patient to see what the company has planned. However, with Samsung persistently championing foldable devices and Apple reportedly developing foldable iPads and MacBooks, it appears inevitable that we will soon witness a foldable iPhone.

## Conclusion

The concept of a foldable iPhone has been a subject of intrigue for many years, and although Apple has not yet introduced such a device, recent developments indicate that we might soon catch a glimpse of what a foldable iPhone could entail in the near term. The 6-inch smart home gadget that Apple is said to be working on could offer significant insights into how the company intends to approach this emerging technology.