“Ad Vitam” is a 2025 French action thriller directed by Rodolphe Lauga, co-written with Guillaume Canet and David Corona. The film was released globally on Netflix on January 10, 2025.
The narrative centers on Franck Lazareff (Guillaume Canet), a former elite agent who survives an assassination attempt only to find his pregnant wife, Léo (Stéphane Caillard), kidnapped by a mysterious group. To rescue her, Franck confronts his past and uncovers a government conspiracy. The film culminates with Franck being imprisoned for crimes he didn’t commit, but Léo possesses hidden evidence that exonerates him, leading to their reunion.
Specific details about the film’s production budget have not been publicly disclosed. As a Netflix exclusive, “Ad Vitam” did not have a traditional box office release. However, it quickly became the platform’s most-watched film upon its release, surpassing several classics.
Critical reception was mixed. The New York Times criticized the film’s pacing, particularly a prolonged flashback sequence. Variety found it entertaining but noted tonal inconsistencies between realistic thriller elements and over-the-top action scenes.
Despite these critiques, “Ad Vitam” captivated audiences with its strong performances and intense plot, solidifying its place in Netflix’s action thriller offerings.
