Papa ou maman 2, directed by Martin Bourboulon, is a French comedy released in theaters on December 7, 2016. A direct sequel to the first installment, the film reunites Laurent Lafitte and Marina Foïs in a satire about divorce and blended families.
Two years after their separation, Florence and Vincent Leroy seem to have found the perfect balance in their new lives. They are both in new relationships, and the children are doing well. But the arrival of new lovers reignites the rivalry between the exes, and the family war resumes with a vengeance. Between absurd situations and incisive dialogue, the film transforms post-divorce jealousy into a comedy of manners.
The screenplay is by Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, who also wrote the first installment of Papa ou maman, which attracted more than three million viewers. The tone remains caustic, with a sense of rhythm reinforced by lively staging and tight editing. A twelve-minute dinner scene, constructed like a play, concentrates all the comic tension of the film.
Filming took place between Arcachon and La Réunion, combining sunny settings and explosive situations. Martin Bourboulon wanted to retain the energy of the first film while adding a more intimate dimension. Marina Foïs and Laurent Lafitte helped rewrite several dialogues, emphasizing the duo's complementary nature. Only one scene—the one in the marital bed—was completely improvised on set.
Known for their work in theater, screenwriters Delaporte and de La Patellière have transposed this experience into the film, favoring dramatic tension through words and exchanges. The result is a verbal confrontation that often takes the place of action scenes. Despite the pressure of the sequel, the team sought to go beyond simple repetition to explore the limits of the modern couple.
Papa ou maman 2
Film | 2016
On HBO Max December 22, 2025
Comedy | Running time: 1h30
By Martin Bourboulon | Starring Marina Foïs, Laurent Lafitte, Alexandre Desrousseaux
Nationality: France
With its sharp humor and upside-down couple situations, Papa ou maman 2 continues the success of the first installment. Martin Bourboulon's comedy regains its irreverent tone and offers an amused look at the contradictions of contemporary divorce, now available to Disney+ audiences.
To go further, check out our selection of new HBO Max releases for December, our guide to streaming releases across all platforms, and today's selection of What to Watch Today on Streaming.
