Paris, France, early 19th century. The legendary convict François Vidocq lives in disguise trying to escape from a tragic past that torments him. When, after an unfortunate event, he crosses paths with the police chief, he makes a bold decision that will turn the ruthless mastermind of the Parisian underworld against him.

A major police operation to take down a notorious gang of bank robbers goes horribly wrong when a rooftop sniper opens fire, killing several police officers and causing an explosive distraction in which the robbers make their getaway. Commissioner Mattei launches a large-scale manhunt for the sniper and his team, and is thrown into the seedy Parisian underworld of criminals and fallen souls.