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Public Enemies (2009) Rank 5 Reviews

Expert Review Summary
Movie critics combined give Public Enemies (2009) a score of 2.6675 out of 4
based on (198) reviews
Click on the numbers to the right of the graph to see reviews of that rating
Excellent
4
Excellent
(28)
Very Good
3
Very Good
(106)
Good
2
Good
(59)
Fair
1
Fair
(5)
Poor
0
Poor
(0)
Reviews by Score:
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Channel 4 Film (Richard Luck)Channel 4 Film (Richard Luck)
Mann's best film since Heat is arguably the best movie anyone's made since Heat. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Channel 4 Film (Richard Luck)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Film ThreatFilm Threat
This is the purest of American narratives, and this, indeed, is one of our finest storytellers. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Film Threat
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Star TribuneStar Tribune
In "Public Enemies," two threats to law and order loom over Depression-era America. One is John Dillinger, a gallant bank robber, and his gang. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Star Tribune
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Movie RetrieverMovie Retriever
Public Enemies is a natural culmination of the great career of Michael Mann. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Movie Retriever
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for FHM [UK] (Paul Salfen)FHM [UK] (Paul Salfen)
An on-the-spot, VIP ushering into the gangster movie hall of fame. Its a real movie, one which youll be proud to say you paid to see. Eat that, Optimus. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at FHM [UK] (Paul Salfen)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for IGN Movies UKIGN Movies UK
is the infamous, Robin Hood-like gangster John Dillinger, who terrorised Depression-era America with a spate of high profile bank robberies. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at IGN Movies UK
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for EmanuelLevy.comEmanuelLevy.com
As such, "Public Enemies" emerges as a top contender for the Best Picture Oscar, particularly now that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has decided to enlarge the number of nominees from five to ten films. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at EmanuelLevy.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Reeling ReviewsReeling Reviews
In addition to Spinotti's work, which was Oscar caliber for Mann's "The Insider," production design and art direction, Jeffrey Fordand Paul Rubell's editing, costuming, hair and makeup and Elliot Goldenthal's original music all cohere to make "Public Enem ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Reeling Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for The Scorecard Review (Jeff Bayer)The Scorecard Review (Jeff Bayer)
Public Enemies isn't my No. 1 of the year, but it's close. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Scorecard Review (Jeff Bayer)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for Bryant Frazer's Deep Focus (Bryant Frazer)Bryant Frazer's Deep Focus (Bryant Frazer)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Bryant Frazer's Deep Focus (Bryant Frazer)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for The Age (Australia) (Jake Wilson)The Age (Australia) (Jake Wilson)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Age (Australia) (Jake Wilson)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for Herald Sun (Australia) (Leigh Paatsch)Herald Sun (Australia) (Leigh Paatsch)
Over 140 minutes that genuinely fly by, Mann crafts a highly atmospheric and emotion-charged movie experience that is sure to be remembered as a touchstone release of 2009. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Herald Sun (Australia) (Leigh Paatsch)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for About.comAbout.com
Dillinger and his cohorts knew they weren't long for this world, living a lifestyle that all but guaranteed a short lifespan. But it was ultimately Dillinger's love of Hollywood and the movies that did him in. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at About.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Christianitytoday.comChristianitytoday.com
Depp, so good at being the chameleon, is also great at playing it straight. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Christianitytoday.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)
Public Enemies has a wealth of depth and texture, packing in a lot of key moments in Dillinger's career but never seeming rushed or ungainly. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Denver PostDenver Post
"Public Enemies" is as elegant and muscular a film as one could hope for in a summer of flash and noise. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Denver Post
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Austin Chronicle (--)Austin Chronicle (--)
You can't tear your eyes off her, any more than you can Mann's flawed but still engrossing picture. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Austin Chronicle (--)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Deseret NewsDeseret News
The engrossing film is a cut above those other films, and it certainly holds its own with better, recent summer releases such as "Star Trek" and "Up. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Deseret News
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-TimesChicago Sun-Times
This is a very good film, with Depp and Bale performances of brutal clarity. I'm trying to understand why it is not quite a great film. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Chicago Sun-Times
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Go Memphis (John Beifuss)Go Memphis (John Beifuss)
"Public Enemies" is both mesmerizing and disappointing. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Go Memphis (John Beifuss)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for The Baltimore SunThe Baltimore Sun
Public Enemies provides a welcome shock to the system. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Baltimore Sun
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Shadows on the WallShadows on the Wall
And the film gurgles with several resonant themes, from the evolution of crime (bank-robbers to inter-state mobs) to the way cops spend more chasing robbers than the robbers actually steal. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Shadows on the Wall
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Rolling StoneRolling Stone
It's movie dynamite! ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Rolling Stone
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Miami HeraldMiami Herald
The movie, along with Depp's tricky, elusive performance, leaves you feeling as if you had met him in the flesh. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Miami Herald
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Aisle SeatAisle Seat
Public Enemies depicts many of the seminal moments in Dillinger's history - his robberies, his tenuous connections to Frank Nitti and other organized crime syndicates, his eventual downfall - and it does these things well. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Aisle Seat
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for MoviewebMovieweb
I love the fact that Public Enemies is not salacious. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Movieweb
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.30 out of 4 stars for Spectrum (St. George, Utah) (Bruce Bennett)Spectrum (St. George, Utah) (Bruce Bennett)
What it lacks in thrills is made up for by its captivating characters and impressive attention to period details. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Spectrum (St. George, Utah) (Bruce Bennett)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.30 out of 4 stars for Compuserve (Harvey S. Karten)Compuserve (Harvey S. Karten)
Describes as well as any other recent film the adage 'Live fast, die young, and leave a handsome body.' ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Compuserve (Harvey S. Karten)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Rotten Tomatoes (--)Rotten Tomatoes (--)
It's a top contender for the Best Picture Oscar, especially since the Academy has decided to expand the number of eligible nominees from five to ten. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Rotten Tomatoes (--)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ScotsmanScotsman
Of course, this being a Michael Mann film, the frame is also bursting with meticulously researched period details and facts, right down to the wool content of Dillinger's overcoat. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Scotsman
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for HollywoodChicago.comHollywoodChicago.com
Certain scenes sometimes felt too ignorant even for the times, too. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at HollywoodChicago.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Dallas Morning NewsDallas Morning News
As with the movie overall, it's a payoff that looks beautiful but doesn't really strike home. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Dallas Morning News
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Paste MagazinePaste Magazine
This may not be saying much, but for the first time this summer, the movies are back. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Paste Magazine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for filmcritic.comfilmcritic.com
Mann may believe he is pushing the edge with his newfound affection for digital, but Public Enemies is really old fashioned filmmaking. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at filmcritic.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Antagonie.comAntagonie.com
He's made a film that refuses to nail itself down to any one niche, and even if it's more straightforward than his recent structural and formal experiments. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Antagonie.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Film BlatherFilm Blather
Because there's no real entry point to the film, and because it takes such a distressing view of, oh, everything, Public Enemies is a bit of a cold experience -- I admire it more than I love it. But I admire it a lot. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Film Blather
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Time OutTime Out
Everything and everyone seem to be teetering on the edge of oblivion. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Time Out
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Hollywood & FineHollywood & Fine
It's not a movie that begs the audience to like it or tries to seduce the audience with its style. When it's over, you know you've seen something of weight and import. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Hollywood & Fine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ViewLondonViewLondon
Public Enemies is a hugely entertaining, superbly directed gangster thriller with terrific performances from Depp, Bale and Cotillard. Highly recommended. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ViewLondon
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for MSN MoviesMSN Movies
When Billie Frechette shared her thin backstory with John Dillinger, each chapter ended with, "And nothing exciting ever happened there either." No critic can ever say that about a Michael Mann movie. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at MSN Movies
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Clothes on FilmClothes on Film
While Depp may be on cruise control, Cottillard underused, and Bale underwritten, Public Enemies is far more hit than miss. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Clothes on Film
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for CultureCatch.comCultureCatch.com
In the end, if you can overcome the confusing action scenes where you'll have trouble figuring out who's shooting whom, and the endless pore-probing close-ups, and the fact that many of the subsidiary characters blur into each other, and that Christia ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at CultureCatch.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Mania.comMania.com
Mann may also be the single greatest practitioner of the gunfight in movie history, and when Public Enemies periodically explodes into violence, he skimps on neither the excitement factor nor the shocking brutality of bullets slamming into the human body. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Mania.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Observer [UK] (Philip French)Observer [UK] (Philip French)
The film ends powerfully. Dillinger wanders into a police station and sees on the wall what looks like a museum - photographs of his career and mug shots of his associates stamped "Deceased". ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Observer [UK] (Philip French)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ericdsnider.com - reviewericdsnider.com - review
Much has been made of Mann's decision to shoot the picture on high-definition video rather than film, a rather common thing nowadays except when it comes to period pieces, which still tend to favor a glossy, old-fashioned look. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ericdsnider.com - review
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Harvey S. KartenHarvey S. Karten
Prison breaks alternate with bank robberies, the loud rat-tat-tats of the Thompson submachine guns light up the darkness like Fourth of July exhibitions. First Pretty-Boy Floyd is gunned down by the law, then Baby Face Nelson (Stephen Graham). ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Harvey S. Karten
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Fronthebalcony.comFronthebalcony.com
Public Enemies is an above-average gangster film and certainly a welcome addition to what has become an anemic genre at the movies. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Fronthebalcony.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Orlando SentinelOrlando Sentinel
As historic and entertaining though Public Enemies is, if we're moved, it's all due to the guys Mann paid the big bucks to. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Orlando Sentinel
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ComingSoon.net ()ComingSoon.net ()
Mann makes it more about the characters and their story, making for a far more satisfying piece of filmmaking. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ComingSoon.net ()
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for New York Times (Manohla Dargis)New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
Michael Manns Public Enemies is a grave and beautiful work of art. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)
The popular reaction to what the defiant anti-hero came to represent in depression-era America made it almost criminal to call him one. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Sunday Mail [UK] ()Sunday Mail [UK] ()
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sunday Mail [UK] ()
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaca)Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaca)
Evoca o embate de personalidades (e de diferentes lados da Lei) visto em outras obras do cineasta. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaca)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for tonymacklin.net (Tony Macklin)tonymacklin.net (Tony Macklin)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at tonymacklin.net (Tony Macklin)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Total Film (Rob James)Total Film (Rob James)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Total Film (Rob James)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for ReelViewsReelViews
Public Enemies is solid in both its storytelling and the way in which the narrative is represented on screen. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ReelViews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Ozus WorldOzus World
For those viewers accepting of a crime thriller that engages the senses more than the intellect and one that fills the screen with desperate romanticized outlaws living out for real Gable's romanticized gangster role in Manhattan Melodrama, this one has t ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Ozus World
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for OregonianOregonian
The problem here is that while some of Mann's work is overwhelmingly great, the sum of it simply never compels. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Oregonian
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for ReelTalk Movie Reviews (John P. McCarthy)ReelTalk Movie Reviews (John P. McCarthy)
Johnny Depp's charisma and matinee idol looks aren't reason enough to fall in love with Public Enemies, Michael Mann's saga about Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger. Depp is magnetic, but not that magnetic. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ReelTalk Movie Reviews (John P. McCarthy)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Toronto StarToronto Star
Public Enemies is alert to the irony of gangsters aping movie stars and vice-versa, but the film's most telling moment occurs when Dillinger vanishes in plain sight. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Toronto Star
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Grouch ReviewsGrouch Reviews
In the end, Mann gives us a cracking good action picture grafted with synthetic tragedy. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Grouch Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for San Francisco Examiner (Rossiter Drake)San Francisco Examiner (Rossiter Drake)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at San Francisco Examiner (Rossiter Drake)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for LarsenOnFilm (Josh Larsen)LarsenOnFilm (Josh Larsen)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at LarsenOnFilm (Josh Larsen)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Fort Worth Star-Telegram (Scott Von Doviak)Fort Worth Star-Telegram (Scott Von Doviak)
Give Michael Mann this much credit: his testosterone-soaked ode to the days of Dillinger gives good tommy-gun. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Fort Worth Star-Telegram (Scott Von Doviak)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
a cool and calculated throwback to the romanticized heyday of gangster films ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Wall Street Journal (Joe Morgenstern)Wall Street Journal (Joe Morgenstern)
Michael Mannâs "Public Enemies" never lacks for interest, or interesting info. Back in the 1930s, we learn, the FBI was simply called the Bureau of Investigation before being formally Federalized. Mr. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Wall Street Journal (Joe Morgenstern)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles TimesLos Angeles Times
One of the interesting side effects of this exceptional care is to make "Public Enemies" so real it seems to transcend its period and exist out of time. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Los Angeles Times
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Premiere MagazinePremiere Magazine
This is better than your average bio-pic. The dynamic established between the motivation of Bale's and Depp's characters is really what makes this film. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Premiere Magazine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Inquirer (--)Philadelphia Inquirer (--)
There are enough good moments to please Mann's fans, but the Transformers crowd may be lost. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Philadelphia Inquirer (--)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Seattle TimesThe Seattle Times
Mann knows exactly how to pace this kind of movie, set to a veritable symphony of gunshots, and Public Enemies feels both wonderfully populated and beautifully controlled. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Seattle Times
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Kansas City StarKansas City Star
Public Enemies attempts to establish a sort of personal duel between the taunting, charming crook and Bales grim, unemotional lawman. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Kansas City Star
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Las Vegas WeeklyLas Vegas Weekly
It's a film whose execution often fails to live up to its ambitions, but like all of Mann's films, it has a level of seriousness and craftsmanship that demands your attention. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Las Vegas Weekly
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Newsday ()Newsday ()
Mann is clearly urging today's audiences to draw its own conclusions. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Newsday ()
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for FlickFilospher.comFlickFilospher.com
We don't know Dillinger by the end, but we do get him. Maybe that's the most modern thing of all about this frustrating and fascinating film. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at FlickFilospher.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Big Picture Big SoundBig Picture Big Sound
I often wish Michael Mann spent as much time crafting a script has he does a camera shot, but I'd never begrudge this talented director his style. That would be the real crime. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Big Picture Big Sound
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for TV Guide's Movie GuideTV Guide's Movie Guide
Public Enemies proves once again that he can create beautiful cinema out of this perspective. But for audiences who can't bring themselves to share his rather sedate vision, beauty might not be enough. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at TV Guide's Movie Guide
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for New York ObserverNew York Observer
Thrilling, glamorous, richly textured and breathlessly action-packed, it is one of the best movies of the year. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New York Observer
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.96 out of 4 stars for AskMen.com (Radheyan Simonpillai)AskMen.com (Radheyan Simonpillai)
Sure, Public Enemies can still boast Mann's crisp HD aesthetics and stylistic cool but the showdown between Dillinger and Purvis lack ... well ... Heat. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at AskMen.com (Radheyan Simonpillai)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Sunday Mail (Australia) (Robert W. Butler)Sunday Mail (Australia) (Robert W. Butler)
Best of all, Mann and his cast achieve a grim atmosphere of fatal inevitability as the net slowly tightens around Dillinger and his free-wheeling criminal cohorts. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sunday Mail (Australia) (Robert W. Butler)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for At the Movies (Australia) (David Stratton)At the Movies (Australia) (David Stratton)
Theres a lot to admire, but its not up to the standard of Manns, or Depps, best work. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at At the Movies (Australia) (David Stratton)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Back Stage (Pete Hammond)Back Stage (Pete Hammond)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Back Stage (Pete Hammond)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Reel Talk ReviewsReel Talk Reviews
On the plus side, period costumes, sets and background music succeed in transporting us back to the 1930s. Like Johnny Depp's acting, these elements of Public Enemies get all the details just right. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Reel Talk Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for New Republic (Christopher Orr)New Republic (Christopher Orr)
If Depp and Bale provide enough masculine good looks for a spring catalogue, it may be a lucky thing. The rest of the cast is made up mostly of men with thick faces and big hands, a Midwestern menagerie of the swollen and surly. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New Republic (Christopher Orr)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Giant MagazineGiant Magazine
One gets the feeling that Mann is slowly but surely finding his way to a movie that perfectly marries his command of cinematic form with his somewhat shaky grasp on content. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Giant Magazine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for New York PressNew York Press
Public Enemies' look inspires the opposite of movie love. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New York Press
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Ain't It Cool Movie ReviewsAin't It Cool Movie Reviews
... a solid, smart adult entry into the summer sweepstakes this year, and a nice moment for Mann, even if it doesn't particularly break new ground. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Ain't It Cool Movie Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Belief NetBelief Net
The movie fails to connect in any meaningful way to the parallels in today's world. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Belief Net
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for CHUD.comCHUD.com
I sat through all of Public Enemies without a complaint, but without ever being really transported. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at CHUD.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Slate (Dana Stevens)Slate (Dana Stevens)
The real-life story of the final days of John Dillinger may have been scripted by God for Michael Mann to direct. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Slate (Dana Stevens)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for The Detroit NewsThe Detroit News
As a result, for such a bloody movie, "Public Enemies" feels oddly bloodless. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Detroit News
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Jam! MoviesJam! Movies
Public Enemies is more an historical drama than a crime thriller. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Jam! Movies
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Entertainment WeeklyEntertainment Weekly
Public Enemies re-creates clothes, but doesn't fully fashion the man who wore them. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Entertainment Weekly
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for San Francisco ExaminerSan Francisco Examiner
Public Enemies, better than about 90 percent of the movies that get released, is enough to keep all but the most greedy of us satisfied. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at San Francisco Examiner
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for AZCentral.comAZCentral.com
Public Enemies is a good movie - sometimes very good - that could have been a great one. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at AZCentral.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.60 out of 4 stars for Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)
Director Michael Mann pulls a fine performance from Johnny Depp as John Dillinger in ways that lift the film's otherwise so-so storyline. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.60 out of 4 stars for Christian Science Monitor (Peter Rainer)Christian Science Monitor (Peter Rainer)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Christian Science Monitor (Peter Rainer)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for BDK's ReviewsBDK's Reviews
There is one action scene worth seeing and the rest is just okay. Rent this one and save your money. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at BDK's Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Seattlepostglobe.orgSeattlepostglobe.org
Public Enemies is a thinking man's gangster film, less about thrills than the mechanics of Dillinger's heists and Purvis' investigation, which he executes with his usual precision. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Seattlepostglobe.org
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for MovieJuice.com ReviewMovieJuice.com Review
Listen, ya mug, Public Enemies is great if your goal is to count down the minutes before the utterly predictable Diana Krall jazz club appearance. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at MovieJuice.com Review
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Financial Times (Nigel Andrews)Financial Times (Nigel Andrews)
We know what we want from a gangster film. We want characters who are half living âwantedâ posters, half speeding pawns of destiny. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Financial Times (Nigel Andrews)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Washington PostWashington Post
Nowhere in "Public Enemies" will you find that sentiment explored or even hinted at in a cursory way. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Washington Post
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for newsreview.comnewsreview.com
Public Enemies looks more like Johnny Depp and Christian Bale playing cops and robbers in fedoras and pinstripe suits. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at newsreview.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Movie City News (David Poland)Movie City News (David Poland)
It's an adult drama that tells a great historic story... a story about eras changing... a very strong dramatic movie on a very big scale. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Movie City News (David Poland)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for New Yorker (David Denby)New Yorker (David Denby)
Outgunned at first by the criminals, Purvis, with Hoover pretending not to notice, hires some trained killers from Oklahoma and Texas. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New Yorker (David Denby)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Seacoast Newspapers (NH/Maine) (Gina Carbone)Seacoast Newspapers (NH/Maine) (Gina Carbone)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Seacoast Newspapers (NH/Maine) (Gina Carbone)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Slant MagazineSlant Magazine
Public Enemies fizzles at the moment of detonation. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Slant Magazine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Screen It! (Jim Judy)Screen It! (Jim Judy)
On a recent segment of "Late Show with David Letterman" featuring guest Johnny Depp, the title host somewhat snarkily commented that "You really get your money's worth in terms of muzzle flash" regarding the star's latest film, "Public Enemies. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Screen It! (Jim Judy)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Newark Star-Ledger (Stephen Whitty)Newark Star-Ledger (Stephen Whitty)
What's the reason to make this movie, now? ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Newark Star-Ledger (Stephen Whitty)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Salon.com (Stephanie Zacharek)Salon.com (Stephanie Zacharek)
Michael Mann is a highly imperfect director, a filmmaker who's sometimes lauded as great when perhaps he's really only a smart storyteller with good visual instincts. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Salon.com (Stephanie Zacharek)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for CrazedFanBoy.com ReviewCrazedFanBoy.com Review
A slow-paced but entertaining film. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at CrazedFanBoy.com Review
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for NY Daily NewsNY Daily News
Audiences connect with this actor the way "Enemies" implies Dillinger and the public did. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at NY Daily News
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Creative LoafingCreative Loafing
Yet what Public Enemies lacks in complexity, it makes up for in artfulness. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Creative Loafing
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for ScreenDaily.comScreenDaily.com
Public Enemies doesn't entirely correct that imbalance, but this lengthy film engrosses because Mann does delve a little deeper into his characters' psychology. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ScreenDaily.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Weekly (Sean Burns)Philadelphia Weekly (Sean Burns)
Thereâs just something startling and crazy about the delivery method, the intensity of Mannâs direction, his bold choices and absurdly violent set-pieces. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Philadelphia Weekly (Sean Burns)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for What Would Toto Watch?What Would Toto Watch?
"Public Enemies" remains an intelligent piece of craftsmanship. It's just not the thoroughly engaging film we were led to expect. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at What Would Toto Watch?
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for JoBloJoBlo
It made me want to go read a book on Dillinger so I can be moved in the way I should have been by the film. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at JoBlo
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Chicago MetromixChicago Metromix
Mann's direction is excellent; the script, hit and miss. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Chicago Metromix
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for NYC Movie GuruNYC Movie Guru
It often drags and lacks insight, palpable thrills along with dramatic tension. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at NYC Movie Guru
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Windy City Times (Richard Knight)Windy City Times (Richard Knight)
It hardly matters that there's not been much heat between Depp and Cotillard in evidence or that there's not much fealty at this point to the facts. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Windy City Times (Richard Knight)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Entertainment SpectrumEntertainment Spectrum
Further evidence of the artsy nature of this project is that the title doesn't appear until after all the credits have rolled. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Entertainment Spectrum
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for CinemaBlend.comCinemaBlend.com
Public Enemies unlike whatever you expected from a gangster film. I'm just not convinced that Mann's experiments are worth it, that the choice to style up an uninspiring narrative yields anything than a gussied-up slog through history. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at CinemaBlend.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Village Voice (Scott Foundas)Village Voice (Scott Foundas)
Even when Dillinger is at rest, Public Enemies exudes a nervous tension, the sense that flight is imminent. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Village Voice (Scott Foundas)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Philly.comPhilly.com
The movie that Gable's in seems a whole lot more interesting than the one from which Depp's John Dillinger is about to make his fateful exit. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Philly.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for IGN Movies AU (Patrick Kolan)IGN Movies AU (Patrick Kolan)
Despite a lengthy running time, Public Enemies feels incomplete. It quietly encourages outside research, hinting at interesting elements to the conflict but never quite delivers on what it sets up. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at IGN Movies AU (Patrick Kolan)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Daily Express (Allan Hunter)Daily Express (Allan Hunter)
Ultimately Public Enemies is a bit of a disappointment. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Daily Express (Allan Hunter)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)
This period gangster saga may be filled with exciting gun battles yet can't deliver the firepower in ways that matter the most. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for ReviewExpress.comReviewExpress.com
In a film that somewhat disapoints, casting is top rate. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at ReviewExpress.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for The Movie KitThe Movie Kit
Add juice to this Michael Mann gangster flick. Don't get me wrong, Mann is clearly an expert. The film's stunning visuals and heart-pumping shoot-outs are on par with other Mann classics, such as Heat and The Last of the Mohicans. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Movie Kit
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Sky Movies (Tim Evans)Sky Movies (Tim Evans)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sky Movies (Tim Evans)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Time Out (Trevor Johnston)Time Out (Trevor Johnston)
Its a fascinating moment in history, and Mann captures the cars, the guns and the buildings with painstaking, immersive authenticity. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Time Out (Trevor Johnston)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Sunday Mirror [UK] (Mark Adams)Sunday Mirror [UK] (Mark Adams)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sunday Mirror [UK] (Mark Adams)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Little White Lies (Anton Bitel)Little White Lies (Anton Bitel)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Little White Lies (Anton Bitel)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Sun Online ()Sun Online ()
While the FBI's brave new ideas worked, Mann's do not. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sun Online ()
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Uncut Magazine [UK] (Michael Bonner)Uncut Magazine [UK] (Michael Bonner)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Uncut Magazine [UK] (Michael Bonner)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for This is London (Andrew O'Hagan)This is London (Andrew O'Hagan)
Michael Mann may not succeed with Public Enemies but the attempt is compelling enough. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at This is London (Andrew O'Hagan)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Courier Mail (Australia) (Des Partridge)Courier Mail (Australia) (Des Partridge)
Certainly worth a look, but you might feel that Mann keeps his characters, apart from Billie, at arm's length. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Courier Mail (Australia) (Des Partridge)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Orlando Weekly (William Goss)Orlando Weekly (William Goss)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Orlando Weekly (William Goss)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for jackiekcooper.com (Jackie K. Cooper)jackiekcooper.com (Jackie K. Cooper)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at jackiekcooper.com (Jackie K. Cooper)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for The Trend (Stephen Silver)The Trend (Stephen Silver)
Mann doesn't let his movie breathe. It's a downright beautiful production... everything looks great- so why not show it? ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Trend (Stephen Silver)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for IndependentIndependent
At the heart of all this is the problem that neither Depp nor Bale has the weight to fight the kind of duel Mann wants, and Bale is too stiff to hold the interest. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Independent
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for The Onion A.V. ClubThe Onion A.V. Club
Too much of Public Enemies feels disappointingly smaller than life. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Onion A.V. Club
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for Indie Movies Online (Kimberly Gadette)Indie Movies Online (Kimberly Gadette)
But ultimately, in the battle between Dillinger and Purvis, the winner is...the production values. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Indie Movies Online (Kimberly Gadette)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for Washington Post (Dan Zak)Washington Post (Dan Zak)
It's tough to watch Johnny Depp these days when he's not wearing eyeliner, a do-rag and a monkey on his shoulder. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Washington Post (Dan Zak)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for 2theMovies2theMovies
Billy Crudup makes a strong, albeit unflattering, impression during his brief appearances as Hoover, but Public Enemies needs a stronger prime nemesis than Christian Bale's blank-faced Melvin Purvis. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at 2theMovies
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for The GuardianThe Guardian
Mann's G-Man opera has the ingredients of a great film which don't quite come together. But they are certainly potent. There is a surging, sombre orchestral score by Elliot Goldenthal which channels the spirit of Bernard Herrmann's music for Taxi Driver. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Guardian
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago MetromixChicago Metromix
Despite very good performances from Depp and Cotillard, Dillinger's interest in Billie never translates from innocuous pick-up to true love. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Chicago Metromix
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Movies for the Masses (Joseph Proimakis)Movies for the Masses (Joseph Proimakis)
hit the link to read the full review ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Movies for the Masses (Joseph Proimakis)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Boxoffice MagazineBoxoffice Magazine
Frequently taut but ultimately unsatisfying. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Boxoffice Magazine
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Boston Globe (Ty Burr)Boston Globe (Ty Burr)
Public Enemies has everything going for it except a reason and a script. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Boston Globe (Ty Burr)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Reel Film Reviews (David Nusair)Reel Film Reviews (David Nusair)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Reel Film Reviews (David Nusair)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Can Magazine (Fred Topel)Can Magazine (Fred Topel)
Public Enemies was the movie I was most excited to see this summer. The idea of a â30s gangster movie made with all the trappings of modern cinema seemed like an exciting, original concept. Like most summer movies, it was less than I expected. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Can Magazine (Fred Topel)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Atlantic City Weekly (Lori Hoffman)Atlantic City Weekly (Lori Hoffman)
... Depp has a few solid scenes that spark to life, only to have the spark fail to ignite a consistent interest in the story. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Atlantic City Weekly (Lori Hoffman)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Rotten Tomatoes - ReviewsRotten Tomatoes - Reviews
A great looking but boring misfire. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Rotten Tomatoes - Reviews
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for One Guy's OpinionOne Guy's Opinion
The idea is a pretty weak one, but the footage from "Melodrama" shows that even in their heyday, there were mediocre crime dramas too, and that Public Enemies has plenty of company. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at One Guy's Opinion
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Reelfilm.comReelfilm.com
Public Enemies marks the latest in an increasingly long line of disappointments from filmmaker Michael Mann. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Reelfilm.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Tonymedley.comTonymedley.com
This would be a pretty good documentary. As entertainment, it comes up short. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Tonymedley.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Aufmuth.comAufmuth.com
It doesn't get hotter or more A-list than Johnny Depp and Christian Bale burning up the screen in a ruthless and prickly Michael Mann epic. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Aufmuth.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for St. Louis Post-Dispatch (Calvin Wilson)St. Louis Post-Dispatch (Calvin Wilson)
As sophisticated as it is entertaining, "Public Enemies" isn't the sort of film that's usually associated with the summer. But it has more than enough firepower to be a blockbuster. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at St. Louis Post-Dispatch (Calvin Wilson)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Carolina WeeklyCarolina Weekly
Public Enemies can catch your eye with its powerful imagery. But when I noticed it started to feel long, we still had 30 minutes to go. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Carolina Weekly
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for The Globe and MailThe Globe and Mail
Perhaps the most regrettable crime here is the way that Mann, trying to do too much, robs himself of a great opportunity. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Globe and Mail
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Boston GlobeBoston Globe
Public Enemies has everything going for it except a reason and a script. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Boston Globe
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for The Movie Minute (Joanna Langfield)The Movie Minute (Joanna Langfield)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at The Movie Minute (Joanna Langfield)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for I.E. WeeklyI.E. Weekly
In the minutes before his death, we watch Dillinger watching Clark Gable onscreen playing a crook in Manhattan Melodrama and Mann presses us to see these two doomed Hollywood gangsters as mirrors. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at I.E. Weekly
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for New York PostNew York Post
Sadly, this misfire is no classic like "Bonnie and Clyde" -- it's not even as good as "The Untouchables. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New York Post
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Examiner.comExaminer.com
It's hard to call Public Enemies a bad movie. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Examiner.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for News BlazeNews Blaze
Public Enemies: A movie about a bad boy folk hero whose legendary skill as an expert shooter far outshines the camera's talent here to shoot a movie. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at News Blaze
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Film Freak CentralFilm Freak Central
It's handsome, but, unlike most of Mann's other work, it doesn't mean a thing to me. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Film Freak Central
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.80 out of 4 stars for Decent Films Guide (Steven D. Greydanus)Decent Films Guide (Steven D. Greydanus)
With its well-staged stickups and shootouts … it seems to be all surface — a glossy updating of 1930s Hollywood gangster melodrama without any substantial commentary or insight. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Decent Films Guide (Steven D. Greydanus)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.80 out of 4 stars for Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for New York Magazine (David Edelstein)New York Magazine (David Edelstein)
The best rejoinder to Public Enemies is Michael Jackson's Smooth Criminal video... It's a tommy-gun gangster fantasia with a touch of Guys and Dolls, and it's everything Public Enemies isn't. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at New York Magazine (David Edelstein)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for MovieMartyr.comMovieMartyr.com
It's tempting to chalk Public Enemies' incompetence in presenting Dillinger up to Mann's disinterest in conventional movie characters, yet this movie is filled with endless expository scenes with dialogue that is too cute and contrived to accept any such ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at MovieMartyr.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for Hollywoodreporter.comHollywoodreporter.com
A missed opportunity to make gangster picture with flesh-and-blood characters. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Hollywoodreporter.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for E!OnlineE!Online
The script is stale and frozen in the middle, and there's no emotional core for Depp to latch on to. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at E!Online
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Daily Telegraph (Sukhdev Sandhu)Daily Telegraph (Sukhdev Sandhu)
What's dismaying about Public Enemies, over and beyond the unintelligibility of much of the dialogue and the sliminess of its digital sheen, is that it has no sense of why it's been made. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Daily Telegraph (Sukhdev Sandhu)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Kinetofilm (Brian Holcomb)Kinetofilm (Brian Holcomb)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Kinetofilm (Brian Holcomb)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for MSNBC (Alonso Duralde)MSNBC (Alonso Duralde)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at MSNBC (Alonso Duralde)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for MCN ReviewMCN Review
Mostly enjoyable ride with some great production design and solid acting, this is the kind of depth that Public Enemies lacks. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at MCN Review
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for Rotten Tomatoes (--)Rotten Tomatoes (--)
Mann's would-be gangster saga lacks personality. It fails to exploit its topic and its first-rate cast. And that is a crime. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Rotten Tomatoes (--)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for News of the WorldNews of the World
In a cold way, you can admire the spirit of Public Enemies - but while you're watching, it's hard to give a monkey's. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at News of the World
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for Entertainment SpectrumEntertainment Spectrum
As much as the film had bang for the buck, it just did not cut it. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Entertainment Spectrum
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for TeletextTeletext
Towards the predictable bloody finale, Dillinger feels inspired by Clark Gable's slick hoodlum in the 1934 flick Manhattan Melodrama. It's a nice touch - in real life this was the last pic Dillinger saw before his death. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Teletext
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for TheDivaReview.comTheDivaReview.com
A life story that should have allowed Johnny Depp to dig into his scenes with a knife and fork is a hollow, listless shell of a film with nothing but the name power and valiant efforts of its actors to recommend it. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at TheDivaReview.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for Themovieboy.comThemovieboy.com
Public Enemies, alas, is coldly ineffectual bordering on transparent, so thin as to evaporate from the mind the moment it is over. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Themovieboy.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for Tri-City HeraldTri-City Herald
You learn nothing about these criminals or the era in Mann's bloated, over-produced, often historically inaccurate film done with sound so poorly recorded that what passes for dialogue is a muddled mess. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Tri-City Herald
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for Richmond.com (Mike Ward)Richmond.com (Mike Ward)
I won't make the obvious hack joke about "Public Enemies" stealing from moviegoers - oops. But if you want to see a decent cat and mouse story, watch "Catch Me If You Can." Or the History Channel. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Richmond.com (Mike Ward)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.25 out of 4 stars for BrianOrndorf.com (Brian Orndorf)BrianOrndorf.com (Brian Orndorf)
For those expecting a chic thrill ride of cops and robbers, Public Enemies is not that picture. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at BrianOrndorf.com (Brian Orndorf)
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.25 out of 4 stars for VarietyVariety
Overall impact is muted. Oddly, too, the film is somewhat shortchanged by its great star, Johnny Depp, who disappointingly has chosen to play Dillinger as self-consciously cool rather than earthy and gregarious. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Variety
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for WaffleMovies.comWaffleMovies.com
Public Enemies could be a battle of wits and wills. Instead, it's a battle to stay awake. ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at WaffleMovies.com
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Critic's NotebookCritic's Notebook
This classically oriented cops-and-robbers narrative, set against a potent, evocative Depression-era backdrop, falls short in the areas that set great cinema apart: ...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Critic's Notebook
Public Enemies (2009) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Sly Fox (Kam Williams)Sly Fox (Kam Williams)
...read the complete Public Enemies movie review at Sly Fox (Kam Williams)

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by gd2525 on July 17, 2009 Blackwood, New Jersey
The film is decent for what is advertised, Johnny Depp as a criminal and Christian Bale hunting him down. However, the overall film is hurt by director Michael Mann's constant use of a shakey camera making some scenes really incoherent. The acting ...
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Public Enemies (2009) Reviews
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Overall Rating:
2.7099
Public Enemies (2009) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
Avg Critic Score:
2.6675
Public Enemies (2009) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
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