Why 'Un bon avocat' confirms Netflix's smartest French play

Is Netflix finally ready to consistently deliver premium original films that transcend regional appeal? With the upcoming release of Un bon avocat, starring the acclaimed Laurent Lafitte and directed by Tristan Séguéla, it certainly seems that the streaming giant is doubling down on a winning strategy: investing in high-caliber French productions. This move is not just about local content; it’s about elevating Netflix’s global film offerings and proving its capacity for sophisticated, internationally resonant cinema.

Set to premiere on November 9, 2026, Un bon avocat plunges us into the world of Léonard Landry, a brilliant yet cocaine-addicted criminal defense lawyer whose double life spectacularly collapses with an overdose in court. Following rehab, Landry is given just one week to salvage his career by preparing his own trial and simultaneously defending a powerful industrial group entangled in a terrorist network. Lafitte, fresh off his César win for Best Actor, reunites with Séguéla, with whom he previously collaborated on the critically noted series Tapie and the 2013 comedy 16 ans ou presque.

The French Connection: A Netflix Strategy Evolving

For a long time, Netflix’s approach to international content, particularly French originals, has been to lean on established brands or popular national figures to guarantee an audience. Projects like the upcoming adaptation of La vie est un long fleuve tranquille or the successful Tapie series, which explored the life of Bernard Tapie, exemplify this strategy. However, Un bon avocat is a creation original, not based on a known book or historical personality. Its strength lies purely in its compelling premise and the star power of Laurent Lafitte. Ecran Large notes that while it's an original creation, it still banks on Lafitte's immense popularity and his proven rapport with director Séguéla.

This marks a significant evolution. Instead of relying solely on existing intellectual property, Netflix appears increasingly willing to back compelling original narratives if they come with top-tier talent. The collaboration between Séguéla and Lafitte, recognized for their prior success with Tapie—a series that earned Tristan Séguéla a BAFTA International Award and an International Emmy nomination, as What's on Netflix reported—likely convinced Netflix to invest in this original project. The film also boasts an impressive supporting cast, including Mélanie Laurent, Carole Bouquet, and Anthony Bajon, who plays the determined beginner lawyer helping Landry. The production, from company Iconoclast, was filmed in various locations including Tours, Lille, Paris, and Senegal, adding a broad scope to the narrative. Notably, Un bon avocat was selected out of competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival in September 2026, a rare international festival showcase for one of Netflix's French movies, further signaling its prestige and potential for global appeal.