Watch Dillinger
- R
- 1973
- 1 hr 47 min
-
6.9 (5,786)
Dillinger is a 1973 American biographical crime film directed and produced by John Milius. The movie is based on the life of notorious bank robber John Dillinger, played by Warren Oates. The film follows Dillinger's criminal career from his days as a petty thief to his rise to the top of the FBI's Public Enemies list during the Great Depression.
The movie opens in Indiana in 1929, with Dillinger being released from prison after serving a sentence for auto theft. From there, the film chronicles his rise to fame and notoriety as one of the country's most wanted criminals. After a series of successful heists, Dillinger catches the attention of the FBI, led by Melvin Purvis (played by Ben Johnson), who launches a massive manhunt to capture him.
Along the way, Dillinger develops a romance with Billie Frechette (played by Michelle Phillips), a young woman who initially resists his advances but eventually falls for him. The two embark on a passionate but doomed relationship, as the law continues to close in on Dillinger and his gang.
The movie features several classic bank robberies, shootouts, and car chases, with director Milius infusing the action with a gritty intensity that captures the desperation and lawlessness of the era. Warren Oates gives a standout performance in the lead role, portraying Dillinger as a charismatic but ultimately tragic figure who knows that his life of crime will likely end in violence.
Ben Johnson is equally impressive as the relentless FBI agent chasing Dillinger, leading a team of skilled agents who will stop at nothing to bring him to justice. Michelle Phillips is also excellent in her role as Billie, bringing depth and vulnerability to a character who could have easily been reduced to a love interest.
Overall, Dillinger is an engrossing and well-crafted crime drama that offers a glimpse into one of the most fascinating and violent periods in American history. The movie's blend of action, romance, and tragedy makes for a riveting watch, with director John Milius deftly balancing the various elements to create a truly memorable film. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema or simply enjoy a good crime story, Dillinger is a movie that definitely deserves a place on your must-watch list.
Dillinger is a 1973 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.