Public Enemies
By Nathan Cocks
After Heat there was little doubt that if Michael Mann made more crime films, they would be worth the watch. His most recent film, Public Enemies, reinforces that belief with a savvy tale chronicling the life of John Dilinger – would be folk hero and America’s first Public Enemy #1.
Mann’s tale, skilfully headed by Johnny Depp in the title role, is a riveting drama made all the more captivating by the inclusion of Marion Cotillard as Dillenger’s girl – the two actors working wonderfully against each other. Christian Bale’s monotone performance as Melvin Purvis is less impressive in comparison. Mann could still learn to reign himself in with some editing but the film will hold you until the thrilling conclusion.
The BluRay transfer of the film is very impressive with exceptional high definition visuals and an immersive DTS-HD 5.1 soundtrack. Mann did elect to use a film grain in this film to give it a real period feel but it does mean that in certain low-light conditions the visuals look lower fidelity than they are. Overall this may not be as good a show-off of your setup as something like Casino Royale but it still impresses.
Special Features
The package is rounded out by a solid list of inclusions all in glorious HD. Apart from Mann’s insightful commentary track these are mostly found in the form of the five featurettes, ranging in subject matter from examining the relationship between Dillinger and Purvis to the criminal technology in use at the time.
Final Verdict
A gripping crime drama that shines in high definition format; Mann’s is perhaps the best retelling of the life of Dillinger to date. A hefty list of inclusions round out a wonderful BluRay release.
Discuss (4 posts)
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Public Enemies
Feb 23 2010 06:39:42 I didnt really like this movie, which was a shame because I really, really wanted to. To me it felt like they tried to make the FBI/law enforcement out to be the bad guys, and Dillinger & co the victims. It was also historically inaccurate, especially when it came to Nelson. If you wanna see a really good gangster flick then IMO you still cant go past The Untouchables or Road to Perdition (perhaps the best).
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#59 |
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Public Enemies
Feb 25 2010 10:09:27 Yeah I must admit that it didn't really draw me in. I don't know if it was just me but did the sound level for the voices seem way too low for anyone else?
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#155 |
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Public Enemies
Apr 20 2010 13:51:46 I'll admit it isn't Mann's best and is in more need of editing than many of his other movies but I really did enjoy the Robin Hood angle of this whole piece. No, if you know the history of Dillenger it is not a historically accurate piece but then again if that is what you are after there are plenty of docos on the subject.
Gags aside, I do appreciate the criticisms made of this film and don't dismiss them - they just didn't get in the way of my enjoyment. |
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