36 - Indie Film Of The Month

An intriguing if not entirely successful good cop, bad cop drama.

Feature by Paul Greenwood | 15 Jun 2006
Since Gérard Depardieu and Daniel Auteuil first appeared on screen together in 'Jean de Florette' in 1986, they've gone on to co-star in a further four films, becoming French movie royalty in the process. They face off once again in this intriguing if not entirely successful good cop, bad cop drama that spans several years in the professional and personal lives of two ambitious and ruthless Parisian detectives, each vying to become the new Chief of Police. As corruption and betrayal escalates into murder and revenge, director Olivier Marchal orchestrates with plenty of visual style even if he ultimately bites off just a little more than he can chew in trying to make the canvas as epic as he does. It also missteps when early ambiguity is abandoned in favour of turning one of them too bad for redemption. But the emotional content has genuine impact and the sensational leads add gravity to the occasionally overwrought developments, no doubt contributing greatly to '36' becoming one of the highest grossing homegrown films of 2004 at the French box office. Oh, and you'd better believe the Hollywood remake is on its way - Pacino versus De Niro one more time anyone? [Paul Greenwood]
Director: Olivier Marchal
Starring: Gérard Depardieu, Daniel Auteuil, Valeria Golino
Release Date: June 2nd http://www.36themovie.co.uk/