Mars Express on Netflix: an animated cyberpunk thriller, our review

Mars Express arrives on Netflix with a crime investigation led by a human-and-android duo. Jérémie Périn’s first feature film, following the series Lastman, transposes the conventions of the crime thriller to a society where humans and robots coexist.

In 2200, detective Aline Ruby, voiced by Léa Drucker, works with her android partner, Carlos Rivera. Their mission leads them to the heart of a conspiracy involving robots on Mars. The film was released in French theaters on November 22, 2023.

In his 2023 review, Nathanaël of Sortiraparis highlights the possibilities of animation: it allows for far more visual flourishes than most works in the genre, making Mars Express a film with a constantly surprising, yet above all believable, universe. It comes to life through its many details that seem insignificant at first glance: everyday life in Noctis, the Martian capital, its customs, its popular and seedy spots, and how it works. The plot of Mars Express isn’t particularly original, but it’s a fine tribute to film noir with a cyberpunk twist. A delight.

• To be read
• Top cinemas in Paris

Jérémie Périn has childlike fun shaping this universe, and since he works in animation, he takes the liberty of handling the fictional camera with impressive movements, showing the full extent of his talent. A filmmaker to keep an eye on!

To find out more, check out our picks of the new releases on Netflix this November, our guide to new releases across all streaming platforms, and our daily pick, What to watch streaming today.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.