Les Règles de l’art, the highly anticipated 2025 French film directed by Dominique Baumard, is a bold cinematic take on one of the most captivating real-life heists in recent French history. Seamlessly blending crime, comedy, and character-driven drama, this film is already making waves across international film festivals and is poised to become a modern classic in French cinema.
A Film Inspired by a Real Art Heist
The plot is loosely based on the 2010 theft at the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris, where five priceless paintings—including works by Picasso and Matisse—were stolen in what would become one of the most notorious unsolved art crimes in Europe.
Co-writer Benjamin Charbit first encountered the case during the trial proceedings in 2017 and was instantly fascinated by the audacity of the criminals involved. That obsession turned into a collaborative script with Baumard, who spent years researching the court documents, conducting interviews, and building a realistic, yet cinematic world around this story.
Plot Summary: When Boredom Meets Brilliance
Yonathan Cobb (played by Melvil Poupaud) is a quiet, methodical man with a specialty in luxury watchmaking. Living a life of routine and precision, he unexpectedly meets Éric Moreno (played by Sofiane Zermani), a seductive and street-smart fence with connections in the black market.
Intrigued by Éric’s charisma and the adrenaline rush of risk, Yonathan agrees to help orchestrate an audacious plan: stealing five paintings from the Musée d’Art Moderne. Together, they enlist Jo (Steve Tientcheu), a seasoned burglar whose skills complete the criminal triangle.
But as with any great heist story, nothing goes exactly as planned. The operation grows increasingly complex, and the trio must face the emotional, ethical, and existential consequences of their actions.
Characters and Performances
- Melvil Poupaud as Yonathan Cobb – a deeply nuanced performance, balancing innocence and moral ambiguity.
- Sofiane Zermani (Fianso) as Éric Moreno – magnetic and layered, playing the role of a man who dances between charm and chaos.
- Steve Tientcheu as Jo – the silent, skilled criminal with a surprising depth.
- Julia Piaton as Agnès Cobb
- Nitsa Benchetrit as Myriam
- Sophie Vannier as Louise Cobb
- Hamed Souna as a Police Officer
Each performance adds a different flavor to the mix, contributing to the film’s tight pacing and emotional undercurrents.
Direction, Cinematography & Soundtrack
- Director: Dominique Baumard
- Writers: Dominique Baumard & Benjamin Charbit
- Cinematography: Julien Poupard
- Producers: Toufik Ayadi & Christophe Barral
- Music: Lionel Limiñana & David Menke
Baumard’s direction is slick and modern, using real locations and night shoots inside the actual Musée d’Art Moderne—a rare privilege granted by the institution. The visual style is moody, polished, and Parisian to its core.
The soundtrack, composed by the psychedelic rock duo The Limiñanas and David Menke, complements the film’s tone perfectly, mixing gritty rhythms with suave ambiance.
Festival Accolades & Early Reception
- Premiered at: Festival International du Film de Comédie de l’Alpe d’Huez
→ Special Jury Prize Winner - Closing Night Feature at: Premiers Plans d’Angers
Critics and early viewers alike have praised the film for its tight screenplay, sharp humor, and emotional weight, noting its rare ability to balance realism with entertainment.
Where to Watch: Stream It with the Best French IPTV
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Themes & Social Commentary
More than just a caper, the film reflects on:
- The price of ambition
- Moral ambiguity in a materialistic society
- The line between art and crime
- Family, loyalty, and betrayal
It raises the question: Is stealing from the elite an act of evil—or an act of rebellion?
Official Trailer
Catch a glimpse of this cinematic gem here:
▶️ Watch the Official Trailer
Final Verdict
“Les Règles de l’art” (2025) is an exciting, stylish, and surprisingly emotional dive into the world of high art, high crime, and the fragile human psyche behind the thrill. With its star-studded cast, real-life roots, and elegant execution, it’s a film that deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Whether you’re a fan of true crime, heist thrillers, or thought-provoking cinema, this movie delivers on every level.
