Directed by Guillaume Pierret, who also helmed the previous two installments, this third film picks up the story where the others left off: a drug-related intrigue where you can follow both sides of the story, that of the police and that of the traffickers. This third entry, like its predecessors, makes realism its hallmark, prioritizing authenticity over unnatural effects and plot twists.
While the series has garnered significant critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, it has often been described as an “underrated action trilogy” or a “hidden gem” that many viewers “haven’t seen (but really should).”
Lino’s Journey Through the First Two Films
At the heart of the entire plot is Lino, portrayed with raw intensity by Alban Lenoir. A brilliant car mechanic with a troubled past, Lino is repeatedly thrust into a dangerous world of corrupt law enforcement and high-speed, life-or-death confrontations. The first film, from 2020, introduced Lino as a man framed for a murder he didn’t commit, forced to use his exceptional vehicular engineering skills to build an escape and prove his innocence.
The 2022 sequel saw Lino, having seemingly cleared his name, still relentlessly pursuing vengeance against the corrupt police officers who murdered his mentor and father figure, Charas, and upended his life. This installment raised the stakes in terms of action and emotional weight.
Lino’s character arc, evolving from a “small-time delinquent” and “repentant criminal” to a “determined avenger,” presents a compelling narrative of transformation. As he navigates the treacherous lines between the law and the underworld, his motivations remain deeply personal, focused on clearing his name, protecting those he cares about, and, above all, avenging Charas’s death. This unwavering focus on personal interest, rather than the grand, world-saving ambitions often seen in the genre, sets the series apart. It grounds its intense, often spectacular action in a more relatable and gritty pursuit of justice, making Lino a compelling antihero.
High Stakes and Reckoning in “Last Bullet”
“Last Bullet” kicks off with Lino, fresh out of prison, more resolute than ever in his mission to take down those responsible for his suffering and Charas’s death. His primary targets remain the cunning and ruthless Areski (Nicolas Duvauchelle) and the corrupt high-ranking police commander Resz (Gérard Lanvin).
The narrative takes a complex turn when it’s revealed that Areski has also returned to France, not only to evade Lino but to seek his own retribution against his former boss, Resz. Throughout this dangerous journey, Lino continues to find a crucial, albeit tense, ally in Julia (Stéfi Celma).
The Architects of the Action: Guillaume Pierret and Alban Lenoir
The consistent vision and visceral impact of the trilogy can largely be attributed to the core creative duo of director Guillaume Pierret and lead actor Alban Lenoir. Pierret has directed all three films and contributed to their screenplays, ensuring a cohesive style and escalating intensity throughout the saga. Lenoir not only embodies Lino’s relentless spirit but has also been an integral creative partner, credited with “artistic collaboration” and as a co-writer on the first film. His “indestructible” portrayal of Lino, a man who absorbs incredible punishment yet continues to fight with cunning and ferocity, is the undeniable anchor of the series.
The sustained collaboration between Pierret and Lenoir is a cornerstone of the trilogy’s strong, unified identity.
Joining Lenoir in this explosive finale are returning key cast members, including Nicolas Duvauchelle as the formidable antagonist Areski, Stéfi Celma as the resourceful Julia, Gérard Lanvin as the corrupt Commander Resz, and Pascale Arbillot as Moss.
Classic Action That Steers Clear of CGI
A defining characteristic of the “Lost Bullet” franchise, and a primary reason for its critical acclaim, is its unwavering commitment to practical on-camera stunts, visceral car chases, and what can only be described as “vehicular chaos,” all achieved with minimal reliance on CGI. This approach evokes the spirit of classic action cinema, where the impact feels tangible and the danger palpable. Lino’s genius as a mechanic isn’t just a plot device; it’s visually represented in the often customized, “Frankenstein” cars he designs for survival and pursuit – machines built for brutal effectiveness.
The franchise’s dedication to practical stunts and minimal CGI is more than just a technical or budgetary choice; it’s an artistic statement that sets it apart. This commitment to tangible, hard-hitting action positions the “Lost Bullet” series as a compelling alternative to the often CGI-saturated landscape of contemporary Hollywood blockbusters. This realistic approach, which demands meticulous planning, significant skill, and considerable risk – as evidenced by the reported 68 days of shooting for “Last Bullet” and the complex location work involving street closures and stunt coordination – resonates strongly with audiences and critics who crave a more visceral and impactful style of filmmaking. It is a key factor in its critical praise and its reputation as a “hidden gem” among action aficionados.
The stunning landscapes of Southern France serve as more than just a backdrop; they are an integral part of the trilogy’s gritty aesthetic. “Last Bullet” continues this tradition, with extensive filming throughout the region. Key locations in Montpellier include the modern Antigone district, which served as the setting for numerous stunts and car crashes; the iconic Place du Millénaire; Léon Blum Street and Jacques Cartier Avenue; a chase sequence along the Lez River; the urban sprawl of Montcalm Park; and even a fight sequence filmed inside a real tram on tram line 1. Filming also took place in Sete, utilizing areas around the Molière Theater and along the picturesque coastal road from Le Môle Saint Louis to the Corniche for impressive chase sequences. The commune of Lattes provided visual variety, with drones capturing sweeping, dynamic shots, while the Goodyear test tracks in Mireval offered a controlled environment for executing high-speed chases, drifts, and other complex vehicular stunts.
Director Guillaume Pierret commented on the fluidity of the production: “Everything went incredibly well. The team was in top form, so what was promised was delivered.” Producer Remi Leautier, a native of the region, expressed his enthusiasm for showcasing Montpellier: “I really wanted to shoot in Montpellier because I love this city… Some scenes from the first two films were shot here. But this one will give the city a more prominent visual presence. Especially the Antigone district, which is very cinematic.” This extensive on-location filming not only enhances the film’s authenticity but also has a positive economic impact, employing local staff, and serves as a cultural showcase of these French regions for a global Netflix audience.
Where to Watch “Last Bullet”
Netflix
