Netflix has started principal photography on a sequel to the French action thriller 'Ad Vitam' [1].
The move signals the streaming giant's commitment to expanding successful non-English language franchises to capture a broader global audience. By doubling down on high-budget regional action cinema, Netflix aims to replicate the viral success of its previous international hits.
The new project carries the working title 'Ad Vitam Eternam' [2]. It reunites the platform with French actor Guillaume Canet, who will once again portray the lead character, ex-elite agent Franck Lazareff [1], [3].
Production for the sequel began this month [2]. The original film, which established the character and the high-stakes world of the series, was released in 2025 [1].
Netflix has not yet released a formal plot synopsis for the new installment. However, the production intends to continue the narrative arc of Lazareff and build upon the commercial and critical success of the first film [2], [3].
The announcement comes as Netflix continues to invest in European content. The company has increasingly focused on local-language productions that possess the scale and production value of traditional Hollywood blockbusters, a strategy that has proven effective in the French market [1], [2].
“Netflix has started principal photography on a sequel to the French action thriller 'Ad Vitam'.”
The greenlighting of 'Ad Vitam Eternam' reflects a shift in streaming strategy toward 'franchise-building' within local markets. Rather than relying solely on one-off international hits, Netflix is attempting to create sustainable intellectual property in France, leveraging established stars like Guillaume Canet to ensure a built-in viewership for future installments.
