Public Enemies (2009)

Director Michael Mann’s latest drama centers on the life of John Dillinger (Johnny Depp) and the man, Agent Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale) who must bring him down. With Baby Face Nelson (Stephen Graham) and Pretty Boy Floyd (Channing Tatum) at his side, Dillinger charms the nation and evades J. Edgar Hoover (Billy Crudup) and his men. But for all the style found herein, Public Enemies lacks in hearty substance.

Public Enemies is nearly too smart for its own good. The entire cast including Marion Cotillard but especially Depp and Bale are perfectly nuanced. But the film feels too reflective and doesn’t allow this gifted cast to breathe. As Dillinger, Depp exudes a man who has transcended his meager upbringing. He seems almost otherworldly in the eyes of Mann. So, too, is G-man Melvin Purvis and Hoover. Bale and Crudup are also amazing, but the reality of these men seems lost.

This film is brilliantly executed. Stylistically is looks gorgeous. The production is glamorous, but gritty. And the cast—did I mention the cast? It’s a roll call for some of the best, often overlooked, and up-and-coming actors. It was distracting to find David Wenham, Giovanni Ribisi, Carey Mulligan, Emilie de Ravin, Leelee Sobieski or even Diana Krall pop-up in bit characters.

For what it is—the gangster equivalent to Jesse James—Public Enemies is masterful. But the film isn’t approachable. The production is open for interpretation and might leave much to be desired for most. However, as I see it, Public Enemies is a brilliant portrayal of a most interesting man.