Dominik Moll’s ‘Dossier 137’ Exposes Police Brutality in France

Three years after the critically acclaimed police drama The Night of the 12th, French filmmaker Dominik Moll returns with Dossier 137, a captivating investigative film that delves into the inner workings of the IGPN – known in France as “the police of police.”

The Case of Guillaume Girard

Set in Paris in 2018, during the height of the Yellow Vest protests, the film centers on Guillaume Girard, a 20-year-old seriously injured in the head by a LBD (defense bullet launcher) fired by a police officer. Girard’s mother files a complaint with the General Inspectorate of the National Police (IGPN), and the case is assigned to investigator Stéphanie Bertrand (Léa Drucker).

A Meticulous Investigation

Bertrand’s investigation involves questioning witnesses and analyzing surveillance footage. She identifies a group of five men in civilian clothes as members of the BRI, a unit of the National Police. The officers claim self-defense, leading to a complex and challenging investigation.

Systemic Obstacles and Political Tension

As Stéphanie Bertrand seeks to determine which officer fired the shot, she encounters resistance from police unions and some of her colleagues. The film highlights the systemic difficulties in investigating fellow officers, depicting a failure to achieve justice.

A Rigorous and Nuanced Approach

Dossier 137 is inspired by real events that occurred during the Yellow Vest crisis. Moll’s approach, similar to that in The Night of the 12th, is characterized by a rigorous and precise detailing of the investigative process, avoiding sensationalism. The film focuses on the daily work of investigators – interrogations, evidence analysis, and bureaucratic procedures – rather than relying on action-oriented scenes. Entrevue notes the film dissects the administrative and legal proceedings of a typical, yet explosive, case.

Critical Acclaim and Awards

Léa Drucker’s performance as Stéphanie Bertrand has been widely praised, earning her the César Award for best actress. Screen Daily reports that Drucker embodies the character with accuracy, portraying an honest and complex investigator confronting disillusionment.

Real Footage and Historical Context

Dominik Moll incorporated real footage from the 2018 Yellow Vest protests into the film, alongside recreated scenes and footage from journalists at the time. The film addresses the leverage of unorthodox practices by law enforcement during the protests, stemming from fatigue and a lack of clear orders.

Cannes Premiere and Reception

Dossier 137 premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, 2025, receiving an eight-minute standing ovation. Particle News reported that the film challenges viewers to confront their own perspectives on the events.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Dossier 137, a film by Dominik Moll, starring Léa Drucker, Sandra Colombo, and Côme Peronnet. Currently in theaters.