DVD Reviews - Friday, October 16, 2009 8:58

Public Enemies

Director Michael Mann

Stars Johnny Depp, Christian Bale

DVD & Blu-ray Nov 02

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Michael Mann’s film stars Depp as gangster John Dillinger who, thanks to his love of robbing money hungry banking institutions, becomes something of a celebrity. The newly formed FBI–and in particular agent Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale)-label him Public Enemy Number 1 and make it their mission to bring him down.

Although Depp and Bale spend mere minutes of screen time together, they are perhaps more powerful apart than they would have been acting side by side. Depp is, as ever, absolutely mesmerising, making Dillinger a true anti-hero you can’t help but root for. As the man he is charismatic and gentle; as the gangster he is sharp, aggressive and focused, both revelling in and pushing his status to the absolute limit. When he wanders, unnoticed, through a police station we come to realise that the legend is so big, people simply don’t see the man.

With high-definition visuals, a hyperreal focus and an evocative soundtrack that perfectly compliment the stunning performances, Public Enemies is both a moving lament for the golden age of the American gangster and beautifully crafted piece of cinema. *****

Extras The Blu-ray is the stand-out format, with a director’s commentary, making of, various featurettes looking at the historical context of the film and picture-in-picture capabilities. ****