36

TARTAN

RELEASED 2 June 2006

If you like the Al Pacino/Robert DeNiro classic ‘Heat’, then you’re going to want to see ‘36’ (full French title ‘36 Quai des Orfèvres’, the location of the French equivalent of Scotland Yard). Frustrated by a gang committing a series of violent robberies, Leo Vrinks (Daniel Auteuil) and Denis Klein (Gérard Depardieu) are two cops seeking promotion and the imminent departure of the Chief sets the scene for them to compete for the vacant throne, with the line between the law and disorder becoming worringly blurred. Gripping, violent, macho, and very French (ie. lots of smoking), ‘36’ has a stylish look, a pacy soundtrack, and is well-acted, Depardieu being particualry strong. For lovers of crime flicks, definitely recommended. 

THREE OUT OF FIVE