The Pedal to the Metal Finale: An Essay on Netflix's "Last Bullet"

Guillaume Pierret’s Last Bullet (2025) serves as the high-octane conclusion to the Lost Bullet trilogy, a French action saga that has carved a niche for its relentless vehicular mayhem and gritty, grounded approach. Picking up directly after the events of Lost Bullet 2, the film plunges viewers back into the dangerous world of ex-con-turned-police-mechanic Lino (Alban Lenoir) and his ongoing battle against corruption and those who wronged him. While the narrative might not always break new ground, Last Bullet delivers on the promise of its predecessors, offering a visceral and thrilling ride characterized by breathtaking stunts and a simmering undercurrent of revenge.

The Pursuit of Justice: Lino’s Final Vendetta

The central driving force of Last Bullet is Lino’s unwavering pursuit of justice for his mentor, Charas, who was murdered in the first film. This vendetta places him squarely in the crosshairs of the corrupt Commander Resz (Gérard Lanvin) and the slippery, morally ambiguous Areski (Nicolas Duvauchelle), the man who pulled the trigger. The film efficiently re-establishes these core conflicts, setting the stage for a complex web of alliances, betrayals, and relentless chases. Lino’s journey is not just about catching the bad guys; it’s a personal quest fueled by loyalty and a desire to dismantle the systemic corruption that plagues the narcotics division.

Visceral Action: The Hallmark of the Trilogy

What truly distinguishes the Lost Bullet trilogy, and Last Bullet in particular, is its commitment to practical, visceral action. Eschewing excessive CGI, the film revels in the crunch of metal, the screech of tires, and the impact of brutal hand-to-hand combat. The stunt work is nothing short of staggering, with car chases that feel genuinely dangerous and fights that are up close and personal. Last Bullet arguably features some of the most ambitious action sequences of the entire trilogy, including a memorable three-way brawl on a moving tram and a final act involving a heavily armed tow truck battling a helicopter. These set pieces are not just spectacle; they are intricately choreographed and contribute to the film’s overall sense of urgency and high stakes.

Characters and Relationships: The Emotional Core

However, while the action is undoubtedly the star of the show, the characters and their relationships provide the emotional anchor. Alban Lenoir’s portrayal of Lino remains compelling. He embodies a quiet intensity, a man driven by a strong moral compass despite his criminal past. His partnership with Julia (Stéfi Celma) offers a glimmer of hope and a crucial support system in his dangerous mission. The dynamic between Lino and Areski is also a key element, evolving from outright antagonism to a reluctant understanding as they both become targets of Resz’s ruthlessness. Even the supporting characters, like Sarah (Julie Tedesco), the skilled mechanic, add valuable layers to the narrative and contribute to the overall momentum.

Familiar Territory: Narrative Strengths and Weaknesses

Despite its strengths, Last Bullet occasionally treads familiar ground. The core premise of a skilled individual taking on corrupt authorities isn’t particularly novel. Some critics have also pointed out that the plot, while functional, serves primarily as a framework for the action sequences. Additionally, keeping track of the various double-crosses and shifting allegiances can sometimes be challenging. However, for fans of the genre, these narrative shortcomings are often overshadowed by the sheer thrill of the expertly executed action.

Conclusion: A Satisfyingly Explosive Finale

In conclusion, Last Bullet delivers a satisfying and adrenaline-fueled conclusion to the Lost Bullet trilogy. While its narrative might not be groundbreaking, its commitment to practical, high-octane action, coupled with compelling performances from Alban Lenoir and the rest of the cast, makes it a worthwhile watch for action movie enthusiasts. It’s a film that understands the visceral appeal of a well-staged car chase and a brutal fight, offering a thrilling and ultimately cathartic end to Lino’s quest for justice. Last Bullet puts the pedal to the metal and doesn’t let up until the explosive final moments, solidifying the trilogy’s place as a standout in contemporary action cinema.