Ad Vitam (2025): Full list of cast explored

Ad Vitam, a 2025 French-language action thriller, captivates audiences with its intense storyline and dynamic cast. Directed by Rodolphe Lauga, who co-wrote the screenplay alongside Guillaume Canet and David Corona, the film premiered globally on Netflix on January 10, 2025.

Canet not only played a central role but also produced the movie with Jean Cottin under Cabanes Productions. Principal photography occurred in Paris and Versailles, creating a vivid backdrop for the narrative.

Ad Vitam follows Franck, a former elite Gendarme officer, whose life unravels when a mysterious group kidnaps his pregnant wife, Léo. Franck must face personal and professional demons as a dangerous conspiracy from his past emerges. Stéphane Caillard, Guillaume Canet, Nassim Lyes, Zita Hanrot, and Alexis Manenti play key roles in the film, giving compelling performances.

Below is an in-depth exploration of the main and supporting cast of the movie, their roles, and their cinematic journeys.

Main cast of the movie Ad Vitam

Guillaume Canet as Franck

Franck, portrayed by Guillaume Canet, is a former member of the elite National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN). Haunted by a terrible past, including the death of his friend Nico, Franck's life darkens when his wife Léo is abducted. Resolved to find the truth, he negotiates a web of lies, threats, and conspiracies.

Renowned French actor and director Guillaume Canet starred in movies including The Beach and Tell No One. Critics have praised his directorial efforts, including Little White Lies. Canet's adaptability as an actor and director gives his performance of Franck in Ad Vitam complexity.

Stéphane Caillard as Léo

Stéphane Caillard plays Léo, Franck's supportive yet strong-willed wife, who shares a history of training with him in the GIGN. Léo’s kidnapping becomes the catalyst for Franck's relentless quest for justice.

Caillard has appeared in notable projects, including the television series War of the Worlds.

Nassim Lyes as Ben

Franck's friend and fellow GIGN member, Ben, is portrayed by Nassim Lyes. His friendship with Franck adds emotional depth to the film, and his involvement in Franck's past provides essential clues to the mystery that is unfolding.

Lyes is recognized for his dynamic performances in films like Under Paris. His experience in action-packed roles ensures his character resonates with the intensity of Ad Vitam.

Zita Hanrot as Manon

Zita Hanrot plays Manon, Nico’s wife, whose life intertwines with Franck's after her husband’s untimely death. Manon’s perspective adds layers to the narrative, offering insights into Nico’s mysterious demise.

Hanrot gained prominence with her César Award-winning performance in Fatima. Her roles in Lee and other projects highlight her range as an actress.

Alexis Manenti as Nico

Alexis Manenti embodies Nico, Franck’s close friend and former GIGN colleague, whose death casts a shadow over the entire storyline. The character’s past with Franck is crucial in unraveling the conspiracy.

Manenti, celebrated for his role in Athena, excels in portraying complex characters.

Supporting cast

The supporting cast of the movie includes

Johan Heldenbergh as Vanaken
Jean-Yves Berteloot as Général GIGN
Stéphane Rideau as Stanislas
Cyrielle Clair as Léo’s Mother
Stéphanie Crayencour as The Journalist
Alexandra Mercouroff as Interior Minister
Jamel Blissat as Homme DGSI 2
Maurice Chan as Forensic Police Officer

Production and direction

A still from the movie Ad Vitam (Image via Netflix)

Ad Vitam, directed by Rodolphe Lauga, leverages his previous work on films like It's Complicated. This provides a cohesive and captivating narrative, as Guillaume Canet and David Corona collaborated on the scriptwriting.

Jean Cottin's production expertise further enhances the film's cinematic appeal. The film's shooting locations in Versailles and Paris authenticate the high-stakes drama.

Plot of Ad Vitam

The film revolves around Franck, a former GIGN officer whose tranquil life is shattered when his pregnant wife, Léo, is kidnapped. Haunted by the death of his friend Nico, Franck delves into his past to uncover a conspiracy involving shadowy figures.

As he races against time, Franck faces betrayals, challenges, and revelations that test his resolve. The Parisian backdrop and intense action sequences heighten the suspense, making Ad Vitam a thrilling journey of redemption and justice.

Ad Vitam is currently available to stream on Netflix.

Edited by Somava