Saw the first part, and this review is pretty spot on about Cassel. He carries this picture with bravado, radiating a genuine sleazy and magnetic charisma. The film itself is a noble mess otherwise -- like Mesrine, a little too brash and brutal. I did like that the film steam-rolled over any character development just as Mesrine steam-rolled over everyone and everything. Its abrupt, slick and violent. But occasionally too slick; stylistically, Richet oversteps his boundaries more than once, particularly during a commando-style action sequence that caps the film and tests one's credulity.

Lovely to see Depardieu in a small role, playing against his gentle giant character type and reminding us that he actually has quite a range. I'll be back for part 2. After A Prophet, it looks like the French gangster flick is making a comeback!