Squad 36 (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Original Title: Bastion 36
Director: Olivier Marchal
Writers: Olivier Marchal, Michel Tourscher
Streaming Availability: Netflix (Original)
Introduction: A Gritty French Crime Thriller with Familiar Tropes
Olivier Marchal, a veteran of the French crime genre, returns with Squad 36 (2025), a Netflix original film that attempts to capture the raw tension and complexity of police corruption, loyalty, and vengeance. Featuring Victor Belmondo, the grandson of legendary actor Jean-Paul Belmondo, the film delves into the life of a disgraced police officer who embarks on a rogue investigation following the murders of his former colleagues.
But does Squad 36 break new ground, or does it merely rehash Marchal’s signature themes? Let’s dive into this intense thriller and explore its strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact.
Plot Summary: A Cop’s Quest for Truth
Antoine Cerda (Victor Belmondo) is a skilled yet reckless officer of the French BRI (Brigade de Recherche et d’Intervention), whose involvement in illegal underground fights leads to his demotion to the BAC (Brigade Anti-Criminalité). Six months after his forced transfer, several of his former teammates are brutally murdered, and another goes missing.
Determined to uncover the truth, Antoine embarks on his own unauthorized investigation, only to discover that his colleagues were entangled in a dangerous web of corruption, betrayals, and underworld dealings. With mounting pressure from his superiors and the looming threat of an unknown enemy, he must navigate the treacherous waters of the Parisian crime scene before he becomes the next target.
Review: Familiar Yet Compelling?
What Works: The Strengths of Squad 36
✅ Authentic Noir Atmosphere
Marchal, known for 36 Quai des Orfèvres (2004), once again delivers a moody, grimy, and immersive portrayal of law enforcement’s dark underbelly. The film’s cinematography enhances its gritty realism, showcasing the damp, neon-lit streets of Paris where law and crime intertwine.
✅ Strong Lead Performance by Victor Belmondo
Stepping out of his grandfather’s shadow, Belmondo delivers a solid performance as the troubled yet relentless Antoine. His portrayal of an officer struggling with personal demons and professional obstacles adds depth to an otherwise conventional character.
✅ A Unique Musical Touch
One of the film’s unexpected highlights is its soundtrack. Featuring German-language tracks by Rebeka Warrior and the band KOMPROMAT, the music adds a refreshing contrast to the typically French PolAr (polar noir) aesthetic.
✅ A Reflection on Police Corruption
While Squad 36 doesn’t introduce new themes, it subtly critiques systemic racism and the internal politics of law enforcement. The film portrays how officers from minority backgrounds are often relegated to lower-ranking positions, adding a layer of social commentary beneath its action-heavy surface.
What Falls Short: The Weaknesses of Squad 36
❌ Predictable and Repetitive Narrative
For those familiar with Marchal’s previous work, Squad 36 might feel like a case of déjà vu. The film follows a formulaic structure—disgraced cop, corruption within the force, personal vendettas—without adding much innovation. Many scenes, such as Antoine’s repeated confrontations with bureaucratic superiors, feel redundant.
❌ Lackluster Action Sequences
Despite its crime-thriller premise, Squad 36 underdelivers on intense action. The early motorcycle chase sets up expectations for adrenaline-fueled sequences, but the film later settles into a more procedural, dialogue-heavy approach that lacks momentum.
❌ Missed Potential in the Climax
The film builds up tension effectively, but its final act lacks the payoff expected from such a high-stakes narrative. The resolution feels more like an episode of a crime drama rather than a cinematic spectacle.
Where to Watch Squad 36 (2025) Online
As a Netflix Original, Squad 36 is exclusively available for streaming on Netflix worldwide, including in the U.S. Unlike other films that offer rental or purchase options, this title is not available on services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play Movies.
📌 Streaming Platform: Netflix (Subscription required)
📌 Rental/Purchase Options: Not available
Final Verdict: Worth Watching?
Squad 36 is a solid but familiar entry in the French crime thriller genre. Olivier Marchal stays in his comfort zone, delivering a film that is atmospheric, well-acted, and engaging but ultimately predictable. Fans of 36 Quai des Orfèvres or gritty European police dramas will likely enjoy it, while those seeking innovation in the genre might feel underwhelmed.
👉 Recommended for: Fans of French crime films, noir enthusiasts, and Netflix thriller seekers
👉 Skip if: You’re looking for a groundbreaking crime story with fresh ideas
Watch or Skip?
If you enjoy gritty crime dramas and don’t mind a familiar storyline, Squad 36 is worth a watch on Netflix. However, if you’re expecting a revolutionary take on the genre, you might want to revisit 36 Quai des Orfèvres instead.
🎬 What do you think? Have you watched Squad 36? Share your thoughts in the comments!
