The Cast
Even though we know this is how the story ends - it's an indisputable fact - just like Dillinger's contemporaries, the Public Enemies audience is rooting for Johnny Depp as Dillinger to somehow escape the trap, take off to some exotic locale, and live out a long life with Billie Frechette at his side. Depp's captivatingly charming portrayal of Dillinger cries out for a happier ending. Depp's Dillinger is a likable guy, smooth and smart, who just happens to be a bank robber. He could be violent, but it's his softer side as he falls deeply in love with Billie Frechette that makes Depp's Dillinger so engrossing. This Dillinger's a foolish romantic first, gangster second.As Dillinger's one true love, Oscar winner Marion Cotillard (La vie en rose) is simply incredible. She and Depp have fantastic chemistry, and Michael Mann allows their intimate moments to linger on screen, making the relationship feel more immediate and real.
Johnny Depp and Marion Cotillard in 'Public Enemies.'
© Universal Pictures
The Bottom Line
The meticulous attention paid to every little detail, including Mann's choice to film as much as possible at the actual locations where Dillinger hid out and where he died, makes the 1930s not only come alive but fairly jump off the screen. The cinematography is first rate and I was blown away - almost literally - by the sound design. Mann also does a great job with the shoot-outs, especially the Little Bohemia showdown. The gun battle doesn't look choreographed at all. As the bullets fly and chaos erupts, viewers are brought into the fight as though we're there running alongside the fleeing Dillinger and Red.
Christian Bale as Melvin Purvis and Johnny Depp as John Dillinger
© Universal Pictures
GRADE: A- (only missing an A because it runs a little too long)
Public Enemies was directed by Michael Mann and is rated R for gangster violence and some language.
Theatrical Release Date: July 1, 2009
