A different kind of cop drama, Polisse tackles material sure to make some uncomfortable but does so without losing the humanity amongst the horror of crimes against children.

Cop movies usually revolve around three crimes: homicide, narcotics and burglary. Whether it is Al Pacino chasing down a thief in Heat or Gene Hackman breaking a drug syndicate in The French Connection, cop stories are usually structured to be thrilling and attractive cinema. The biggest obstacle for Polisse is that it’s a film which deals with violence against children, not in any way Saturday night movie material. But place your apprehension aside for Poliss is riveting viewing worth investing in.

The film focuses on the Paris police department’s Child Protection Unit, whose day to day duties include taking testimonials of abhorrent abuse by victims, interrogating remorseless suspects and the occasional raid. It also delves into the lives of these police officers and how their work affects them, with extra attention given to the volatile Fred (Joey Starr), grumpy Iris (Marina Fois) and sensitive Nadine (Karin Viard).

Our access into this tight nit group is through Melissa, a photo journalist assigned to document the unit. The part is played by Maiwenn, who also directs and co-wrote the film. Although this is her third feature film as a director, Maiwenn is perhaps best known for her past relationship with French director Luc Besson giving birth to his child at the age of 16, a creepy fact that resonates while watching Poliss.

An authentic air is felt throughout, especially within the walls of police headquarters where these cops draw out information from victims and their predators. Some moments will make many wince and others surprisingly will make many laugh in shock, such as a scene where a teenage girl describes why she voluntarily gave fellatio to a group of boys in return for her smartphone to the cackling of these officers who can’t comprehend the stupidity and ignorance of such a brazen act.

There are problems with Poliss, to be sure. Maiwenn’s handling of the different storylines does feel episodic at times (this will make a great TV show) and character narratives can end on a flat note.

Regardless, Poliss is a movie sure to evoke a strong response and thoughtful discussion. When was the last time a cop movie did that?