Netflix rom-com called 'French Notting Hill' critics hated but fans say it's 'super cute'

Netflix fans have insisted the streamer's latest romantic-comedy is one of their best films in recent memory, even though it's received lacklustre reviews.

While it does not yet have a score from review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, professional reviewers have not been impressed with the streamer's new release, French Lover.

The film stars Lupin icon Omar Sy as cynical actor Abel Camara who strikes up an unexpected romance with struggling waitress Marlon (played by Sara Giraudeau).

Most publications have sadly given the film middling to poor reviews since it dropped on Friday (26th September).

The New York Times called it "an affair not to remember" in their scathing review, writing: "Notting Hill crosses the English Channel and loses most of its charm in this shamelessly derivative trifle from France."

The unfavourable Notting Hill comparisons didn't stop there, with Midgard Times calling it a "weird version" of the classic Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie.

"At one point, you are just watching it for the sake of it," the review went on. "The acting is fine as per the characters.

"But what's the point of it, if the plot is so boring and doesn't make any sense?"

However, while the reviews have been less-than stellar, rom-com enthusiasts have insisted this charming and surprisingly steamy flick is well worth a watch.

One rave Rotten Tomatoes user review read: "A fun, lighthearted romance to lose yourself in for a few hours. I enjoyed the female lead's understated performance which is rare nowadays.

"Just a sweet, simple love story with enough humor to keep the story moving through some of the slower plot points. An enjoyable watch!"

Another user agreed: "This is kind of a remake of Pretty Woman, but with a 2025 spin. It was a bit unbelievable, but super cute. Loved it! Wish Netflix would make more of these."

The praise continued over on Letterboxd, where one fan declared: "love omar sy. he's acting is so natural and flirty. what a GREAT simple French romcom."

Another wrote: "Soo funny sooo cuute soo un-realistic and the tiiniest bit trashy. But such a well rounded cozy rom com. Also its Omar Sy, come on."

"I love it it's so cheesy," another five-star review admitted.

And a final viewer shared: "I really like idk, Idc if ppl don't like it... Has been a long time ago since I really ENJOYED and laugh with a romantic comedy."

For fans who adored The Wrong Paris or the TV series Emily in Paris, make sure you check out Netflix's latest guilty pleasure from France.

French Lover is available to stream on Netflix.