Summary of “Polisse” by Maïwenn

One-line summary: “Polisse” is a gritty and emotionally charged French drama that explores the lives of officers in the Child Protection Unit of the Paris police force.

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Maïwenn
• Writers: Maïwenn, Emmanuelle Bercot
• Key Actors: Karin Viard (Nadine), Joey Starr (Fred), Marina Foïs (Iris), Nicolas Duvauchelle (Mathieu), Maïwenn (Melissa), Karole Rocher (Chrys)
• Music Director: Stephen Warbeck
• Director of Photography: Pierre Aïm
• Producers: Alain Attal, Maïwenn

Plot:

“Polisse” takes us into the chaotic and emotionally charged world of the Child Protection Unit (CPU) in Paris. The film follows a group of officers as they navigate the challenging and often heartbreaking cases involving child abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Led by the dedicated but flawed Captain Nadine, the team faces the daily struggles of their work, which takes a toll on their personal lives.

The film delves into the lives of the officers, exploring their complex relationships, personal traumas, and the impact their work has on their mental and emotional well-being. We witness their frustrations, compassion, and occasional moments of hope as they strive to protect vulnerable children and bring perpetrators to justice.

Through a series of interconnected vignettes, “Polisse” tackles a range of sensitive issues, including child pornography, incest, and child prostitution. The film doesn’t shy away from the disturbing realities of these crimes, presenting them in a raw and unflinching manner.

Themes and Motifs:

“Polisse” explores themes of empathy, resilience, and the blurred boundaries between personal and professional lives. It highlights the challenges faced by the officers in maintaining a sense of normalcy while being constantly exposed to the darkest aspects of human behavior. The film also examines the toll that this work takes on their mental health, as they struggle to find solace and support within their own relationships.

The movie also raises questions about the effectiveness of the justice system in dealing with child abuse cases. It sheds light on the bureaucratic hurdles, legal loopholes, and societal indifference that often hinder the officers’ efforts to protect children.

Reception and Legacy:

“Polisse” received critical acclaim upon its release in 2011. It won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and was praised for its realistic portrayal of the difficult subject matter. The film’s ensemble cast was particularly lauded for their powerful performances, with Karin Viard and Joey Starr standing out in their roles.

The movie’s impact extended beyond its critical success, as it sparked important conversations about child protection and the challenges faced by those working in the field. Its unflinching portrayal of child abuse and its consequences left a lasting impression on audiences.

Recommendation:

“Polisse” is a hard-hitting and emotionally charged film that offers a thought-provoking exploration of the realities faced by those working in the Child Protection Unit. It is not an easy watch, as it confronts the audience with the harsh realities of child abuse, but it is a powerful and important film that sheds light on an often overlooked issue. The stellar performances and raw storytelling make “Polisse” a must-watch for those interested in thought-provoking and socially relevant cinema.

Memorable Quote:

“We’re not here to judge, we’re here to protect.” – Captain Nadine