The Netflix romantic comedy, “The Wrong Paris,” has sparked a debate over location authenticity following its release on September 12, 2025. While the film, starring Miranda Cosgrove and Pierson Fodé, centers on a woman mistakenly entering a dating show in Paris, Texas, the decision to film primarily in Canada has drawn criticism, fueling discussions about representation and production choices.
Premise and Plot
Directed by Janeen Damian and written by Nicole Henrich, “The Wrong Paris” follows Dawn (Miranda Cosgrove), an aspiring artist seeking funds for art school in Paris, France. Dawn auditions for “The Honey Pot”, a dating show, hoping for a quick exit. However, her plans are complicated when she learns that the show takes place in Paris, Texas, and she finds herself developing feelings for Trey (Pierson Fodé), a local rancher she previously encountered. The film hinges on the comedic contrast between Dawn’s expectations of a European adventure and the reality of small-town Texas, setting the stage for a lighthearted romantic storyline.
Filming Location Controversy
Canadian Production, Texas Setting
A key point of contention surrounding “The Wrong Paris” is its filming location. Despite being set in Paris, Texas, principal photography occurred in Vancouver and Agassiz, British Columbia, Canada, during September and October 2024. This decision has disappointed some viewers, particularly Texans. As reported by MySA, one source stated, “Not cool, Netflix,” suggesting that while financial incentives may have influenced the choice, it was a “shame” given Paris, Texas’s historical connection to cinema. The relocation of the film’s production raises questions about the authenticity of its portrayal and the missed opportunity to support the local Texas economy.
Critical Reception: Mixed Reviews
Reviews for “The Wrong Paris” have been varied, contributing to the ongoing discussion about the film. Roger Ebert’s review labels the movie a “bland love story with little satirical bite”, while The Guardian calls it a Netflix Bachelor romcom that “makes few right choices.” These critics highlight the film’s reliance on familiar tropes and its failure to deliver a fresh perspective on the romantic comedy genre. Conversely, SKJ Bollywood News praises it as a “breezy, self-aware romantic comedy” that “gets streaming rom-coms right” due to its original concept and writing. But Why Tho? echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the film’s predictable nature while appreciating its overall execution. The chemistry between Cosgrove and Fodé is frequently cited as a strength, even amid criticisms of underdeveloped supporting characters and a somewhat predictable plot.
Impact and Discussion
The decision to film “The Wrong Paris” in Canada, coupled with its critical reception, has fueled online discourse and sparked discussions in local Texas media. This is impacting the situation primarily through the expression of a desire for more authentic representation in film production. While the debate hasn’t reached a national scale, it reflects a broader conversation about the importance of location authenticity in filmmaking and the potential economic benefits for local communities. The film’s portrayal of Paris, Texas, through a Canadian lens, and its largely formulaic approach to the romantic comedy genre, continues to be a talking point among viewers and critics.
The Authenticity Debate
The core of the debate surrounding “The Wrong Paris” centers on the perceived lack of authenticity stemming from its Canadian production. While British Columbia offers various incentives for film production, the decision to forgo filming in Texas raises questions about the commitment to representing the setting accurately. This issue extends beyond mere aesthetics, touching on the potential economic impact of film productions on local communities. Had the film been shot in Paris, Texas, it could have provided jobs, revenue, and increased tourism, contributing to the town’s economy and visibility. The absence of these benefits has left some feeling that the film missed an opportunity to truly connect with its setting.
Looking Ahead
As “The Wrong Paris” continues to stream on Netflix, the discussions it has sparked are likely to persist. The film serves as a case study for the complexities of modern film production, highlighting the tension between financial incentives, creative choices, and the desire for authentic representation. Whether this debate will influence future productions remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly raised awareness about the importance of location authenticity and its impact on both the creative and economic aspects of filmmaking.
In conclusion, “The Wrong Paris” has ignited a conversation that extends beyond its narrative, prompting reflection on location authenticity, economic impact, and the responsibility of filmmakers to represent their settings accurately. While the film may offer lighthearted entertainment, its production choices have sparked a discussion with lasting implications for the film industry and the communities it portrays.
