7 Shocking Reasons Why Netflix’s ‘Public Disorder’ (A.C.A.B: La Serie) Is The Grittiest Crime Drama Of 2025

The latest addition to Netflix's growing library of international thrillers, *Public Disorder* (originally titled *A.C.A.B: La serie*), has landed with a visceral punch, immediately establishing itself as one of the most compelling and brutally honest crime dramas of the year. Released on January 15, 2025, this Italian series takes viewers deep inside the volatile world of a Mobile Police Unit in Rome, exposing the systematic pressures and internal conflicts that define the lives of riot police. Unlike typical police procedurals, this show, based on the novel *ACAB* by Carlo Bonini, is a raw, character-driven exploration of power, violence, and the thin blue line.

The six-episode series, directed by Michele Alhaique and created by Filippo Gravino, doesn't shy away from the controversial themes inherent in its source material, an acronym that stands for "All Cops Are Bastards". It’s a dark, tension-filled narrative that follows a squad of riot cops over a few volatile weeks, blending their troubled personal lives with the escalating societal unrest on the streets of the Italian capital. The series is a masterclass in moral ambiguity, forcing the audience to confront uncomfortable truths about authority and public order.

The Star Power: A Complete Profile of Marco Giallini (Ivano 'Mazinga' Valenti)

The emotional core and commanding presence of *Public Disorder* is undoubtedly Marco Giallini, who portrays the squad leader, Ivano "Mazinga" Valenti. His performance is widely cited as a highlight of the series, anchoring the drama with a blend of rugged authority and deep-seated conflict.

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Marco Giallini: Biography and Filmography

• Full Name: Marco Giallini
• Born: April 4, 1963
• Birthplace: Rome, Lazio, Italy
• Occupation: Actor
• Career Highlights: Giallini is a prolific and celebrated Italian actor with a filmography spanning over 50 films. He is well-known for his roles in critically acclaimed Italian cinema.
• Notable Works:
  • *Romanzo Criminale* (TV Series)
  • *Don't Move*
  • *God Willing*
  • *Perfect Strangers* (2016)
  • *The Place*
  • *ACAB - All Cops Are Bastards* (2012 Film) - A previous cinematic adaptation of the same source material, solidifying his history with the subject matter.
• Character in *Public Disorder*: Ivano "Mazinga" Valenti. Mazinga is an old-school, hardened riot cop whose methods are brutal but effective, putting him immediately at odds with the younger, reform-minded officers.

Giallini’s portrayal of Mazinga is a complex study of a man whose identity is inextricably linked to the chaos he manages. He embodies the "old school" approach to policing, which is challenged by the new police leadership, particularly the arrival of Michele Nobili.

The Gritty Narrative: Plot Synopsis and Core Themes of Societal Unrest

The series plunges the viewer directly into the high-stakes environment of Rome's Mobile Police Unit, the specialized force responsible for managing civil unrest, protests, and football violence. The central conflict of *Public Disorder* is not just between the police and the protestors, but the deep, corrosive rift within the force itself.

A Night of Horror and Its Aftermath: The catalyst for the series is a horrific night of clashes where one of Mazinga's officers, Pietro, is seriously injured by the crowd, requiring an emergency airlift. This incident inflames the already volatile emotions of the squad, particularly Mazinga, who sees it as a justification for his aggressive, no-holds-barred tactics.

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The squad is composed of several compelling characters, each grappling with their own moral compromises and personal demons:

• Ivano "Mazinga" Valenti (Marco Giallini): The veteran leader driven by a fierce, almost paternal loyalty to his squad and an unwavering belief in their methods.
• Michele Nobili (Adriano Giannini): The new, younger officer who represents the reformist wing of the police force, viewing the old guard as a "symbol of an old school that must be refounded". His presence creates immediate internal friction.
• Marta Sarri (Valentina Bellè): One of the few female officers, whose perspective offers a nuanced look at the pressures and sexism within the male-dominated unit.

The narrative expertly weaves together the officers' professional duties—the chaotic riot scenes and confrontations—with their troubled private lives, highlighting the psychological toll of their work. The series uses the backdrop of political and societal unrest in Italy to explore universal themes.

Key Topical Themes Explored:

The show's strength lies in its willingness to tackle sensitive and current issues head-on, giving it significant topical authority.

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1. Systematic Abuse of Power: The series examines the fine line between maintaining order and the systematic abuse of power by authoritative forces. It questions whether all cops are, in fact, brutal.
2. Internal Conflict and Loyalty: The clash between Mazinga's old-school brutality and Nobili's reformist idealism is the dramatic engine of the show, forcing every officer to choose a side.
3. The Psychology of the Riot Cop: *Public Disorder* is a deep character drama, showing the emotional damage and moral decay that comes from repeated exposure to violence and the breakdown of public trust.

Critical Reception: Why 'Public Disorder' is a Must-Watch Italian Thriller

While some early reviews noted minor issues with the tactical logic of the riot scenes, the overall critical consensus for *Public Disorder* has been overwhelmingly positive, praising its complexity, exceptional cast, and intense atmosphere. It is frequently described as a "surprisingly good, complex" series and a "well-made character drama".

The Elements of Praise:

• Masterful Soundtrack and Tension: Critics have highlighted the series' dark, tension-filled atmosphere, which is masterfully enhanced by an exceptional soundtrack that perfectly accompanies the action sequences.
• Exceptional Cast Performance: Beyond Marco Giallini, the ensemble cast, including Adriano Giannini and Valentina Bellè, delivers powerful, nuanced performances that make the morally ambiguous characters feel deeply human and relatable.
• Gritty Realism and Cinematography: Produced by Fandango, a respected Italian production company, the series is lauded for its gritty, realistic portrayal of the chaos of street riots and the stark reality of the officers' lives.

The series is a spiritual successor and sequel to the 2012 film *ACAB - All Cops Are Bastards*, further expanding the universe and the thematic exploration of the Italian police force. This connection adds a layer of depth and continuity for viewers familiar with the original movie.

Is 'Public Disorder' Worth Your Netflix Watchlist Time?

If you are a fan of international crime thrillers, character-driven dramas, or series that delve into the complex social commentary surrounding law enforcement, *Public Disorder* is an essential addition to your watchlist. Its six-episode run makes it an easily digestible binge, but the weight of its themes—police brutality, internal corruption, and the personal cost of maintaining public order—will stay with you long after the final episode.

The series successfully bridges the gap between a high-octane action thriller and a profound psychological drama, using the backdrop of Rome to create a truly unique and compelling viewing experience. Its focus on the human element behind the riot shields, rather than simple black-and-white morality, is what makes *A.C.A.B: La serie* a dark horse contender for the best new Netflix series of 2025.