The Night of the 12th (2022)

Overview

One of the most striking crime dramas in recent French cinema, "The Night of the 12th" (originally titled "La Nuit du 12") is a powerful production directed by Dominik Moll, inspired by a true event. The film is adapted from Pauline Guéna's book "18.3 - Une année à la PJ" and delves deeply into the psychological and professional effects of an unsolved murder case on a team of police officers. Released at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, the production received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences, winning numerous awards at the César Awards, including Best Film.

The film stars Bastien Bouillon in the lead role, with strong names like Bouli Lanners in the cast, alongside Pierre Lottin, who stands out with a notable performance. Lottin plays one of the characters involved in the investigation, making a significant contribution to the story's human landscape. Unlike classic crime films, the production's atmosphere favors a narrative that focuses on the process rather than the resolution.

Plot

The story begins in a small French town when a young woman is brutally killed, her entire body set on fire as she was walking home at night. This savage murder is investigated by the local police force's experienced detective Yohan Vivès and his team. However, as time passes, the case becomes far more complex than expected, and despite the abundance of suspects, no concrete evidence can be found.

Unlike traditional crime narratives, the film focuses not on answering the question of "who did it," but on the devastating impact such unsolved cases have on detectives. Revisited at different points over the years, the case profoundly affects the protagonist's professional and personal life alike. The narrative progresses through time jumps, carrying the viewer into both the details of the investigation and the characters' inner worlds.

Why Watch It?

"The Night of the 12th" makes a bold narrative choice by refusing to offer the satisfying resolution expected from a typical thriller or crime film. This approach is the most important feature that sets it apart from ordinary crime productions. Director Dominik Moll confronts the viewer with an uncomfortable reality: some crimes are never solved, and this can deeply shake the people who work within the justice system.

The film also offers a powerful critique of gender, violence against women, and masculine culture. The witness testimonies and suspect profiles that emerge during the investigation shed light on deep-seated societal problems. Bastien Bouillon's performance masterfully reflects his character's transformation over the years, while the character played by Pierre Lottin also makes a significant contribution to the fabric of the story. The cinematography captures an atmospheric and melancholic tone, visually reinforcing the emotional weight of the film.

Who Is It For?

This film is ideal for viewers who prefer character-driven, thought-provoking, and realistic narratives over classic action-packed crime films. With its slow pace and in-depth character analysis, it appeals to patient and attentive viewers. It is also a perfect choice for those interested in productions adapted from true events, as well as followers of European cinema and French crime dramas in particular.

Those who enjoy productions that address social issues through cinema and offer critiques of systems will also greatly enjoy this film. However, for those who prefer fast-paced, action-heavy films or ones that end with a clear resolution, this production may be somewhat challenging.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. A sincere and realistic screenplay structure inspired by a true event

2. Strong performances from the cast, especially Bastien Bouillon and Pierre Lottin

3. A profound and bold critique of gender issues and the justice system

Cons:

1. An ending that may not be satisfying for viewers expecting a classic resolution

2. A slow-paced narrative that some viewers might find tedious

Genre and Tone

While positioned within the crime drama genre, the film adopts a melancholic and introspective tone rather than relying on traditional thriller elements. Atmospheric cinematography, a cold color palette, and minimal use of music reinforce the film's somber mood. The narrative proceeds in a style close to realism, building dramatic intensity not through exaggerated scenes but through the characters' inner conflicts. This tonal choice turns the film into a deeper and more thought-provoking experience.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film's runtime is approximately 115 minutes, during which the viewer witnesses both the investigation process and the characters' emotional journey. The time jumps are skillfully edited, clearly conveying the changes over the years without disrupting the flow of the story. The viewing experience demands attention but offers an extremely satisfying cinematic experience. This is a film that should be watched in one sitting, requiring uninterrupted focus.

Similar Productions

• Zodiac (2007) – A masterpiece with a similar theme, exploring the impact of an unsolved serial killer case on detectives.

• Prisoners (2013) – A crime drama notable for its dark and realistic atmosphere, focused on human psychology.

• True Detective (Season 1) – A series exploring a long, drawn-out investigative process and the detectives' personal unraveling.

• The Killing – One of the pioneers of Nordic noir style, a slow-paced, character-driven crime production.

• Memories of Murder (2003) – A South Korean classic adapted from a true event, centered on an unsolved murder case.

Final Assessment

"The Night of the 12th" breaks away from the usual conventions of the crime genre, offering viewers an experience that is rich both intellectually and emotionally. With Dominik Moll's masterful direction, strong acting performances, and a screenplay centered on social critique, the film becomes one of the most remarkable examples of modern French cinema. The cast, including Pierre Lottin, successfully carries the story's realism and emotional weight. For viewers who don't seek definitive answers and believe in cinema's power to reflect reality, this film is absolutely not to be missed.