On paper this looks like one of the treats of the year. A film about John Dillinger and the 1930's crime wave, starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, with Michael Mann directing. And yet though this isn't a bad film, it's a disappointment when you consider all the serious talent involved. The last time Mann lenses a quasi-biography was Ali, which benefited from being about one of the most recognisable people in modern times and a fantastic performance from Will Smith. Public Enemies fails on both fronts here. Dillinger is a fairly well known name but, despite the lengthy running time, at no stage does Mann’s film really get underneath the skin of the man and show us why he is a hero to some and a criminal to others. Depp’s portrayal of Dillinger is stale, which considering his past chameleonistic volume of work is most surprising. Bale fares slightly better as the one of the cops on Dillinger’s tale, but again the character feels superficial, and a coda in the end-credits comes out of the blue and you’re left frustrated as there is no hint during the film as to why such a situation would eventually occur. On the plus side there is a strong supporting cast, and, as you would expect with a Mann film, luscious visuals and cinematography to enjoy (though it does make the America of the Great Depression appear to be more like a gold-plated nirvana).
The OC Film Sting Final Verdict
There are the usual excellent Mann set pieces, but an overlong running time and below average lead performances mean this is more Popgun than Tommy Gun. Rating: 5/10.
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