La vie des bêtes

A dozen masked individuals ransack a pharmaceutical laboratory and release the animals used as test subjects. The operation is claimed by the Animal Liberation Front. Cédric, a police officer, sets out to track down the mysterious group. That same evening, he seduces Estelle, a young veterinarian who, a few hours later, participates in an animal rights demonstration. She then comes face to face with Cédric, who has come to arrest the activists. Meanwhile, Ghislain, an employee at an industrial pig farm, acts as an informant for the commando's next operation at his company.

Directed by Orso Miret, La vie des bêtes leans on a strong ensemble — Louise Szpindel, Jonathan Zaccaï, Johan Libéreau — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2008.