Public Enemies
Director: Michael Mann
Writer: Ronan Bennett, Michael Mann, Ann Biderman (screenplay); Bryan Burrough (book)
2009
Whaddya hear, whaddya say? I say Michael Mann has outdone himself with this spectacular film. Yes, it is ’spectacular’. Everything about it is – the acting, the editing, the music, the story, the style, the historical accuracy. For those who aren’t aware, this film chronicles the crime spree of John Dillinger and his gang in the 1930s. Johnny Depp is Dillinger and is as phenomenal as ever, really capturing the essence of the man who was ‘public enemy number one’ in America. He is pursued by Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale) who is assigned to the Dillinger case by J. Edgar Hoover (Billy Crudup). Often overlooked as a really talented actor, Christian Bale is in one of his finest roles; his performance is so understated, he doesn’t need a lot of dialogue because he manages to act so well through his facial expressions, demeanor and his actions. He is subtle, yet powerful. Marion Cotillard is superb as Dillinger’s girl, Billie Frechette, and gives a wonderful, honest and genuine performance.
Now, on to the master, Michael Mann. He went to great lengths (as always) to make this film historically accurate and even shot scenes in and around where the real events occurred. Besides the chilling and fantastic music, what stands out is the camerawork and overall style used. There is a lot of handheld camera action and the film doesn’t even ‘look’ like a typical movie and has more of the feel of a documentary. Public Enemies is no frills filmmaking at its best. No obvious fancy cinematography, special effects, CGI, or that pristine sheen of most Hollywood films. Because of this, it seems as though we are along for the ride. So, do you wanna take that ride with him?
