It's 1933. John Dillinger (Johnny Depp) is brought into prison but he's actually leading a prison break. He and his gang goes on a bank robbing spree around Chicago. After killing Pretty Boy Floyd, FBI agent Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale) is assigned by J. Edgar Hoover to hunt down Public Enemy #1 John Dillinger. Dillinger falls for nightclub singer Billie Frechette (Marion Cotillard).
Director Michael Mann's decision to use digital and his modern style seems very intriguing until I actually see it. There is something disconcerting about this modern way of filming done on a period piece. The incongruity is off-putting. It's missing its heart. Depp and Cotillard are two of the greatest actors around but their chemistry is tepid. I like Depp and Bale in their roles. The action is brutal as in most Mann movies. There are lots to like but the overall feeling is an opportunity lost.
Director Michael Mann's decision to use digital and his modern style seems very intriguing until I actually see it. There is something disconcerting about this modern way of filming done on a period piece. The incongruity is off-putting. It's missing its heart. Depp and Cotillard are two of the greatest actors around but their chemistry is tepid. I like Depp and Bale in their roles. The action is brutal as in most Mann movies. There are lots to like but the overall feeling is an opportunity lost.