Added to Prime Video on Thursday, Feb 1, 2024 Set during the Great Depression, “Public Enemies” chronicles the final years of notorious bank robber John Dillinger (Johnny Depp) as he is pursued by FBI agent Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale). The movie captures Dillinger’s audacious escapes from the law, his complex relationship with Billie Frechette (Marion Cotillard), and his status as a folk hero to many Americans struggling during the economic downturn. The narrative weaves together the perspectives of Dillinger, Purvis, and the various people caught in their cat-and-mouse game, offering a glimpse into the era’s desperation, loyalty, and the early days of the FBI.
Length: 2h 20m
Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
This Title is: Gritty, Fast-Paced
Public Enemies is New on Prime Video in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Johnny Depp as John Dillinger
- Christian Bale as Melvin Purvis
- Marion Cotillard as Billie Frechette
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R
Contains scenes of violence and brief strong language.
Trivia
- The movie was filmed in some of the actual locations where Dillinger’s escapades took place, including the Little Bohemia Lodge in Wisconsin.
- Johnny Depp met with relatives of John Dillinger to prepare for his role and gain insight into the man behind the legend.
- Director Michael Mann opted for high-definition video cameras to capture the period’s details with a modern aesthetic.
Our Review
- Quality:
- Acting:
- Storyline:
- Visuals:
- Entertainment:
“Public Enemies” offers a visually stunning portrayal of John Dillinger’s life, with Michael Mann’s distinctive direction bringing a fresh perspective to the historical crime genre. The performances, especially by Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, are compelling, although some critics felt the characters lacked depth. The movie’s fast pace and action sequences are well-executed, but the emotional connection to the characters could have been stronger. Despite these criticisms, “Public Enemies” is praised for its attention to period detail and its ability to convey the desperation of the era. It’s a solid watch for fans of crime dramas and historical biographies.
Critic Scores
Public Enemies has received a Great Review by the critics
