French Lover

In Paris, an actor who has grown weary of attention crosses paths with a waitress whose luck has run out, and what starts as a chance flirtation turns into an unexpected romance. Abel Camara is used to audiences applauding his performances but tired of the personae that come with fame. Marion is pragmatic and guarded, trying to keep her life afloat amid bills and dead-end shifts. Their connection feels immediate and real, but as Abel's spotlight grows, they face prying photographers, career demands and the awkward compromises that come when private affection becomes public spectacle. The film follows their evolving relationship, the compromises they consider, and the small, tender moments that test whether love can survive under constant daily observation.

French Lover was released in France in 2025, directed by Hugo Gélin from an original screenplay by Gélin, Lisa-Nina Rives and Shirli Mushoyef. The cast is led by Omar Sy with Sara Giraudeau, Pascale Arbillot, Alban Ivanov and Cindy Bruna.

The film opened theatrically in France and in select international markets before becoming available on streaming platforms. It relied on star casting and word of mouth to reach audiences, gaining particular attention from fans of modern romantic comedies in Europe.

Omar Sy's warm performance and a Paris setting full of cafes and narrow streets helped the movie enter social media conversations online, especially about fame and privacy. Costume choices and staged set pieces inspired fashion posts, and viewers compared its tone to recent French rom-coms focused on realism and subtle humor.

Critical response has been mixed to positive, with a 6.037/10 average from 201 votes reflecting divided opinions. Reviewers praised Sy and Giraudeau's chemistry and the film's light comic touch, while noting predictable beats. Themes center on celebrity versus authenticity, economic disparity, private life under public scrutiny and maintaining personal honesty.