Netflix has begun principal photography on a sequel to the French action-thriller Ad Vitam [1].
The project signals the streaming platform's commitment to high-budget non-English content following the success of the first installment. By expanding the franchise, Netflix aims to capitalize on the global popularity of the original film and its lead actor.
Guillaume Canet returns to the role of Franck Lazareff, the ex-elite agent who anchored the first movie. The sequel carries the working title Ad Vitam Eternam [1]. Production for the follow-up officially began in August 2026 [2].
The original Ad Vitam was released in 2025 [3]. That film established a narrative centered on high-stakes espionage, and action, which helped the title gain traction with international audiences. The decision to move forward with a sequel follows the strong performance of the first film on the platform.
While the primary cast remains centered on Canet, reports on additional talent vary. Some sources said that actors from the James Bond franchise have joined the cast for the follow-up [4], though other industry reports have not confirmed these additions.
Netflix has not released a plot summary for Ad Vitam Eternam. However, the production is expected to continue the story of Lazareff, expanding on the world established in the 2025 release [1].
“Netflix has begun principal photography on a sequel to the French action-thriller Ad Vitam.”
The greenlighting of Ad Vitam Eternam reflects a broader industry trend where streaming services prioritize 'tentpole' international films to drive subscriber retention. By investing in a sequel to a 2025 hit, Netflix is shifting away from a volume-based strategy toward a franchise-based model for its non-English library, mirroring the traditional Hollywood approach to action cinema.
