
“Ad Vitam” is a 2025 French action thriller directed by Rodolphe Lauga, featuring Guillaume Canet, Stéphane Caillard, and Nassim Lyes in the lead roles. The film follows Franck Lazareff, a former elite agent, who is thrust back into a perilous world when his pregnant wife, Léo, is kidnapped by a mysterious group. As Franck races against time to rescue her, he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy that forces him to confront his past and navigate a complex web of deceit.
Plot Overview:
Franck Lazareff, once a distinguished member of the French Elite Intervention Group (GIGN), has retired to a quieter life with his pregnant wife, Léo. Their tranquility is shattered when armed assailants invade their home, abducting Léo and leaving Franck for dead. Determined to save his wife, Franck delves into a treacherous underworld, uncovering a conspiracy that threatens not only his family but also national security.
Themes:
Critical Reception:
“Ad Vitam” has received mixed reviews from critics. While some praise the film’s intense action sequences and the compelling performances of the lead actors, others have critiqued its pacing and narrative coherence. For instance, Dennis Harvey of Variety described the film as “entertaining” but noted that it became “increasingly hard to take seriously” due to its script veering between gritty thriller elements and overscaled set-pieces more apt for James Bond.
Availability:
“Ad Vitam” is available for streaming on Netflix.
Conclusion:
“Ad Vitam” offers a gripping narrative that combines intense action with emotional depth, exploring themes of redemption, trust, and sacrifice. While it has garnered mixed critical responses, the film’s compelling performances and suspenseful plot make it a noteworthy addition to the action-thriller genre.