Public Enemies
“Public Enemies” is an action packed thriller starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Michael Mann who tells the true story of legendary bank robber John Dillinger (Depp). During the Depression-era Dillinger is the charismatic bank robber whose sharp quick hold ups made him the number one target of Melvin Purvis (Bale).
The unstoppable Dillinger could escape from anything. No cop could restrain him and no prison was unbreakable. Dillinger’s charm made him captivating to almost everyone, especially to his new love; girlfriend Billie Frechette (Marion Cotillard). Continuing his adventures with his gang, Dillinger eventually became America’s first Public Enemy Number One and Purvis was sent in to head up the squad in the search. Purvis and his squad were made to look incompetent as Dillinger and his gang outwitted Purvis’ men in wild chases and shootouts. Eventually the chase has to come to an end and as they say the good guy always wins.
“Public Enemies” is this summers big let down. Expecting a vibrant film from Bale and Depp, I left filled with boredom. Bored from the chase sequences that were very repetitive and unending. Many scenarios were unbelievable, including Dillinger who picks a random woman out at a club and knows nothing about her, but manages to convince her to quit her job and go on the run with him. Johnny Depp as always is remarkable as Dillinger, but once again I am displeased with Christian Bale as Purvis. I found his forced accent distracting and felt he has overplayed himself once again. As much as the film had bang for the buck, it just did not cut it. I would make sure you have a Red Bull before viewing this flick, as you’ll need energy to remain awake during some drawn out scenes.
