French Action Thriller 'The Orphans' Soars into Netflix's Top 10 Chart
An exhilarating international action adventure film has made a dramatic entrance onto Netflix's top 10 film chart this week, captivating audiences with its high-octane sequences and compelling narrative. Titled 'The Orphans', this buddy thriller from France has quickly climbed to the sixth position on the streaming platform's most-watched movies list, drawing widespread acclaim for its execution and entertainment value.
Plot and Characters
The film follows the story of two estranged friends, Gabriel Stenne and Driss, portrayed by Alban Lenoir, known for Lost Bullet, and Dali Benssalah from Athena. Their reunion is triggered by the mysterious death of a woman they both loved, setting off a chain of events that forces them to confront their past and current differences. One has embraced a life of law enforcement as a cop, while the other operates as a mercenary outside legal boundaries.
When they discover that the teenage daughter of their former flame, Leïla Lakti played by Sonia Faidi of Prime Target, is seeking revenge and placing herself in grave danger, the duo must set aside their conflicts. They embark on a death-defying mission to chase after her, leading to a series of intense and action-packed scenes that drive the plot forward.
Director and Action Sequences
Directed by Olivier Schneider, a seasoned stunt coordinator for major Hollywood productions like Spectre and Fast X, 'The Orphans' delivers top-tier action set pieces that have been widely praised. Schneider's expertise ensures that the film features meticulously crafted stunts and visually stunning sequences, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. The film's runtime of approximately 90 minutes is described as flying by, filled with moments of laughter, tension, and unexpected twists.
Audience Reception
Early viewers have heaped glowing praise on the film, with many highlighting its entertainment value and technical prowess. On IMDb, one user called it "the best thing on Netflix in an age", comparing it to classics like Lethal Weapon and 007 with a touch of The Sweeney from the 1970s. They noted that while the story is familiar, it remains effective and enjoyable, making for a fun and thrilling experience.
On Letterboxd, enthusiasm continued with users commending the "awesome stunts" and "well-crafted action scenes". One review stated, "Hot damn! Some really f***ing awesome stunts in this film and well crafted action scenes. GO SEE THIS!! It f***ing rocks." Another viewer recommended it for its "pulse-pounding action" and fast pace, suggesting it appeals to fans of similar films like Lost Bullet.
French audiences have also responded positively, with one fan praising the "great action scenes, stunts… Excellent work on the visuals" and highlighting magnificent shots of Biarritz. Another raved about the film's ability to keep viewers "on the edge of your seat until the very end", while appreciating the tenderness and empathy between the main characters amidst the violence.
Availability and Conclusion
'The Orphans' is currently available to stream on Netflix, offering a blend of intense action and emotional depth that has resonated with a global audience. As it continues to gain traction on the platform, this French thriller stands out as a must-watch for fans of the genre, combining stellar performances, expert direction, and breathtaking stunts into a cohesive and entertaining package.
