Pleasant ride.

Rating: 9/10 (3 July 2009)

I was really looking forward to this movie - primarily because of Depp and Mann's involvement, and, as if often the case when a movie I've anticipated finally arrives, I feared a let-down. But thankfully, this is one of those happy cases when I was pleased.
Depp is the foundation for this movie. His performance was incredibly convincing. Movie-goers who are familiar with his range and characterization won't be too surprised by this. When he was on-screen, I felt I was actually watching Dillinger. He stole the show, and an Oscar-nod wouldn't surprise me. Miss Cotillard also gave a fantastic and emotional performance. Bale was a little wooden - something that's far too often the case, I fear - but still convincing.
Mann's direction was inspired, on par with other such great films as Heat, The Insider, and Collateral. He continues to be one of the great directors of our time.
I know there's been some complaint about the decision to use HD digital video for the film, and while I admit it was a little distracting in places, it also gave a sense of realism to it, almost as if I were watching a documentary. Helped me to remember that what I was watching actually happened, and wasn't just fantasy.
In all, an impressive, enjoyable film, with an ending that left me stirred. Highly recommended.