Cinema Guild released this low-key French police drama in the US last fall, and I managed to catch it a couple of weeks ago. The print was clearly (or scratchily) on its last legs, but director Xavier Beauvois subtly transforms the routine story of a rookie detective (Jalil Lespert) learning the ropes into a thoroughly absorbing daytime noir. Natalie Baye is superb as a recovering alcoholic who has just returned to street duty as the precinct's chief investigator -- and the rookie's new partner.
Now you can see it without scratches on DVD. Released last week, the disk appears to be a bare-bones affair, so a rental might be the way to go if that's available to you. If not, the DVD can be ordered for purchase via the link below.
Also linked below is a capsule review by Craig Phillips, written after he saw it at the San Francisco International Film Festival last year. In just a few words, he captures -- better than I can -- why the film is worth seeking out.
Order the DVD here
US Web Site
Trailer
Revew - Craig Phillips - Greencine
