'French Notting Hill' on Netflix blasted by critics but fans insist it's their 'best rom-com in years'

Netflix viewers have declared the streaming giant's newest romantic-comedy amongst their finest offerings in years, despite receiving tepid critical reception.

Whilst professional critics remain unimpressed with the platform's latest release, French Lover, review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes has yet to assign it a rating.

The picture features Lupin star Omar Sy as jaded performer Abel Camara, who develops an unlikely romantic connection with cash-strapped server Marlon (portrayed by Sara Giraudeau).

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Most outlets have regrettably awarded the picture mediocre to negative assessments since its Friday (26th September) debut.

The New York Times branded it "an affair not to remember" in their harsh critique, stating: "Notting Hill crosses the English Channel and loses most of its charm in this shamelessly derivative trifle from France", reports the Express.

The unflattering Notting Hill parallels continued elsewhere, with Midgard Times describing it as a "weird version" of the beloved Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts classic.

"At one point, you are just watching it for the sake of it," their assessment continued. "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?"

Nevertheless, whilst critical responses have proved underwhelming, romance devotees have maintained this delightful and unexpectedly passionate offering merits viewing.

One glowing Rotten Tomatoes user review stated: "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 viewer concurred: "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 acclaim carried on over at Letterboxd, where one admirer proclaimed: "love omar sy. he's acting is so natural and flirty. what a GREAT simple French romcom."

Someone else penned: "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 critique confessed.

And a final watcher revealed: "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 devotees who cherished The Wrong Paris or the television programme Emily in Paris, ensure you sample Netflix's newest guilty pleasure from France.

French Lover is available to stream on Netflix.