The Wrong Paris, Netflix’s latest romantic comedy starring Miranda Cosgrove, began streaming globally on September 12, 2025. The film follows a small-town Texas artist who joins a reality dating show expecting to film in Paris, France, only to discover the production is set in Paris, Texas. Directed by Janeen Damian and written by Nicole Henrich, the movie blends romantic tropes with satire aimed at reality TV culture. Initial reviews and fan reactions have been divided, praising Cosgrove’s performance while critiquing the execution of its central romance.
What Is The Wrong Paris About?
The plot centers on Dawn (Miranda Cosgrove), an aspiring sculptor from a small Texas town who receives acceptance into a prestigious art school in Paris, France. However, after using her savings to cover her grandmother’s medical bills, she cannot afford the tuition or relocation costs. Her sister persuades her to audition for The Honeypot, a dating reality show similar to The Bachelor, which promises a cash prize and a trip to Paris for its contestants. Dawn plans to get eliminated early, take the appearance fee, and use the funds to pursue her education in France .
Upon arrival, Dawn and the other contestants learn that the show is not set in France but in Paris, Texas, a town located just minutes from her hometown. The bachelor is Trey McAllen III (Pierson Fodé), a wealthy rancher with whom Dawn previously had a brief encounter. Despite her determination to leave, Dawn finds herself drawn to Trey, complicating her original plan. The story explores whether she will prioritize her dream of Paris or embrace an unexpected romance closer to home .
Who Stars in the Film?
The cast features several familiar faces from television and streaming platforms:
- Miranda Cosgrove as Dawn: Known for her roles in iCarly and Drake & Josh, Cosgrove plays the lead role of an artist torn between her ambitions and her heart .
- Pierson Fodé as Trey McAllen III: A former star of The Bold and the Beautiful, Fodé portrays the charismatic rancher and bachelor .
- Yvonne Orji as Rachel: The Insecure alum plays a producer of The Honeypot who becomes Dawn’s ally .
- Frances Fisher as Birdie: The Titanic actress appears as Dawn’s grandmother .
- Supporting Cast: The ensemble includes Madison Pettis as influencer Lexi, Madeleine Arthur as former beauty queen Cindy, and Hannah Stocking as a contestant with baby fever .
The film was produced by Brad Krevoy and Michael Damian and shot primarily in Vancouver and Agassiz, British Columbia, which stood in for Texas landscapes .
How Have Critics and Audiences Responded?
Reactions to The Wrong Paris have been mixed. Some viewers appreciate its lighthearted take on reality TV tropes and Miranda Cosgrove’s comedic performance. As one review noted:
Miranda Cosgrove carries the movie on her shoulders with her best efforts, even when the story falls short. The film maintains a lighthearted tone, making it a good choice for viewers looking for an easy, background-watch type rom-com .
However, other critiques highlight shortcomings in chemistry and execution. A review from The Guardian stated:
The film’s basic construction fails to clear the requisite low bar – shoddy editing that nearly cuts off lines, camera work so front-focused that it looks filmed in iPhone Portrait Mode… there is barely a spark between the two fated lovers .
Fans of reality dating shows may enjoy the parody elements, such as exaggerated contestant archetypes and dramatic challenges. However, those expecting a sharp satire like UnReal might find the treatment superficial .
Behind the Scenes and Production Notes
Miranda Cosgrove has expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting it was her first lead role in a romantic comedy. In an interview, she shared:
I’ve never been the lead in a rom-com in my whole life, even though I love the genre… I hope people have fun seeing all the crazy and ridiculous physical comedy, as well as the more heartfelt moments .
Director Janeen Damian previously worked on Netflix films like Irish Wish and Falling for Christmas, bringing experience in lighthearted, formulaic rom-coms. Writer Nicole Henrich’s background in reality TV (including work on House Hunters) informed the satire of dating shows .
Is The Wrong Paris Worth Watching?
For viewers seeking an undemanding, trope-driven romantic comedy, The Wrong Paris offers a predictable yet occasionally entertaining experience. Its strengths lie in Miranda Cosgrove’s performance and its playful mockery of reality TV conventions. However, those looking for innovative storytelling or compelling romantic chemistry may find it lacking. As with many Netflix romantic comedies, it fits comfortably into the category of casual viewing rather than must-see cinema .
The film is now available for streaming exclusively on Netflix.
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