Néro the Assassin Review – Netflix 2025 Historical Action Series
Plot & Premise
Set in 1504, Southern France, Néro the Assassin follows Néro, a ruthless assassin betrayed by his former master. While on the run, Néro learns about his estranged daughter, Perla, who has been orphaned. What begins as a mission of survival becomes a journey of redemption, as father and daughter are forced to navigate enemies, betrayals, and moral dilemmas. The series pivots around whether Néro can protect his daughter, reconcile with his past, and perhaps protect more than just himself.
Cast & Characters
Pio Marmaï as Néro: delivers a hard‑edged performance, balancing brutality with the subtle vulnerabilities of a man haunted by betrayal.
Alice Isaaz plays Hortense: a supporting but meaningful role that adds nuance to Néro’s world.
Olivier Gourmet plays Horace: an older, complex figure whose motivations impact the storyline’s moral compass.
✅ What Works
Atmospheric World‑Building
The setting of 1504 France, with its looming political tensions, harsh landscape, and emerging social unrest, is richly realized. Filmed across historic sites, the visual authenticity helps immerse viewers.
High Stakes + Emotional Depth
It’s not just about sword fights and betrayals; the father‑daughter relationship is the emotional anchor. The plot forces Néro into tough choices that test his humanity.
Solid Action & Pacing
The series balances quiet moments with bursts of action. It keeps momentum across its eight episodes. For viewers who enjoy both plot and spectacle, this is a strong mix.
What Falls Short
Some Character Arcs Feel Rushed
Given the eight‑episode format, a few side characters don’t get fully fleshed motives or arcs. Viewers may want more background on some antagonists.
Predictability in Tropes
Betrayal by the master, the reluctant hero, the orphaned child—all classic tropes. While the execution is mostly fresh, some plot beats are foreseeable.
Tone Fluctuations
Transitions between brutal violence and moments of family intimacy can sometimes feel jarring. At times, scenes shift quickly from intense battle or escape sequences to emotional dialogue with limited setup.
Verdict:v– Néro the Assassin is a strong entry in the catalog of historical action drama. It combines rich atmosphere, compelling stakes, and a strong central performance. While not perfect—especially in secondary character depth—it delivers a satisfying balance of action, intrigue, and emotional resonance. If you like period pieces with dark vengeance, moral complexity, and a slash of parental duty, this is one to stream.
