| Overall Grade: |
A |
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| Story: |
A |
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| Acting: |
A+ |
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| Direction: |
A- |
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| Visuals: |
A+ |
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DEPP'S BEST. BEAUTIFUL FILM. GREAT TALE
by J.F (movies profile)
Jul 6, 2009
18
of
24 people found this review helpful
I cannot understand anyone who enjoys GOOD movies having a problem with 'Public Enemies. It was filmed beautifully and did not, to me, have the look of 'a home movie'. Dillinger's story was well told and the film stuck, for the most part, to the truth as we know it. Depp's Dillinger was totally captivating, as Dillinger was to the public in his time. I admit to not being a huge Johnny Depp fan, but I believe this is his best film to date.
I read Leonardo Dicaprio was originally slated to portray Dillinger. Having seen 'Revolutionary Road', it is my humble opinion that Leonardo should never again be cast in a 'period' film. While 'Revolutionaly Road' tried hard to transport the viewer into its era, it had to drag Leonardo into the past kicking and screaming. Despite excellent wardrobe, makeup, and props, Leo looked for all the world like a 2008 character CG'd into the world of the 1950s. Very distracting.
Depp's Dillinger on the other hand transported the movie goer seamlessly and completely into the 1930's, or into what most of them at least think the 30's was like. Depp looked, walked, and talked the era totally. For those who value fine acting, and for Johnny's true fans of course, there were lots of close-ups of Johnny, who did the best 'eye acting' I have seen in decades.
Gangster Dillinger was depicted as a 'risk taker' who loved living on the edge, totally reveled in being loved by 'his public', and a caring man when his friends and lovers were at risk.
The scenery, although not dreary as many films love portraying the 30's on film, realistically used the cars, communication and technology available at the time, costumes, music, and dialogue to take the viewer back in time and Depp's portrayal of Dillinger didn't slow us down one iota.
Lovers of good films should steal the time to give themselves the reward of attending a GREAT film. However, action-movie lovers should stay away in droves, understanding this is a true-story of a complex man told for thinking audiences. Action-lovers won't love it and that is a plus for the film. 'Public Enemies' is though a real treasure for today's movie public, at least those who recognize the value of a truly GOOD film. |
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