From Master Thief to Romantic Hero: Omar Sy Leads Netflix’s French Lover
Netflix has unveiled the first trailer for French Lover, a romantic comedy starring Omar Sy, set to premiere globally on September 26, 2025. The film marks a major shift for the Lupin star as he dives into a new genre.
French Lover is directed by Lisa-Nina Rives, making her feature debut after previously working on Lupin. The film is produced by Zazi Films, Federation Studio France, and Korokoro Productions, with support from TF1, highlighting Netflix’s continued investment in original French-language productions with international appeal.
In the film, Omar Sy plays Abel Camara, a movie star seemingly at the top of his game. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Marion, portrayed by Sara Giraudeau, a woman navigating the aftermath of a divorce. Their romance quickly becomes a clash of worlds, between fame and everyday struggles, testing whether love can transcend such stark differences.
The official trailer showcases the film’s mix of humor and heartfelt moments, with Sy stepping away from his crime-drama persona in Lupin to embrace vulnerability and charm. It hints at a playful yet emotional storyline that asks whether a celebrity can find true connection outside of the spotlight.
Joining the cast alongside Sy and Giraudeau are Pascale Arbillot, Alban Ivanov, Cindy Bruna, and Benoît Crou. Each brings a touch of authenticity to the ensemble, grounding the story in everyday humor while amplifying the glamour of Sy’s on-screen world. This balance suggests French Lover could resonate with fans of both romantic comedies and international dramas.
The screenplay, penned by Hugo Gélin, Lisa-Nina Rives, and Noémie Saglio, leans into the “opposites attract” formula. Comparisons to the 1999 classic Notting Hill are inevitable, with French Lover updating the trope for a contemporary audience. Instead of London and paparazzi, it’s Paris and modern fame that provide the backdrop.
For Sy, the project represents a deliberate reinvention. After cementing his reputation in gripping thrillers and action-packed series, stepping into a romantic comedy underscores his versatility. Audiences familiar with his intensity in Lupin will now see a lighter, more personal side of the actor.
With French Lover, Netflix continues its push into global storytelling. By blending star power, fresh talent behind the camera, and a universal theme of unexpected love, the streamer positions the film as both a local hit and a potential international success when it drops this fall.
