Dillinger Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A charming bank robber runs around causing chaos until a grumpy fed-up fed finally catches him at the movies.

🍿 Dillinger: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Rise of Dillinger

The film opens amidst John Dillinger’s bank-robbing spree in the Depression-era Midwest. Dillinger, played by Warren Oates, establishes himself as a charismatic yet ruthless criminal, captivating the public imagination. His daring heists and escapes make him a folk hero to some, but a menace to law enforcement.

The Pursuit Begins

After a bloody shootout results in the deaths of FBI agents, Melvin Purvis, portrayed by Ben Johnson, is tasked with bringing Dillinger to justice. Purvis, a determined and relentless G-Man, dedicates himself to tracking down Dillinger and his gang, employing increasingly aggressive tactics.

Dillinger’s Gang

Dillinger’s gang includes notorious criminals such as Baby Face Nelson (Richard Dreyfuss) and Pretty Boy Floyd (Steve Kanaly). These volatile personalities contribute to the gang’s escalating violence and recklessness, making them Public Enemy Number One.

Betrayal and Downfall

The film culminates in Dillinger’s betrayal by Anna Sage, the “Lady in Red” (Cloris Leachman). Lured to the Biograph Theater, Dillinger is ambushed by Purvis and his men, meeting a violent end in a hail of gunfire.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• John Dillinger (Warren Oates): The charismatic bank robber becomes Public Enemy Number One during the Great Depression.
• Melvin Purvis (Ben Johnson): The determined FBI agent relentlessly pursues Dillinger and his gang.
• Billie Frechette (Michelle Phillips): Dillinger’s girlfriend remains loyal to him throughout his criminal spree.
• Anna Sage (Cloris Leachman): The infamous ‘Lady in Red’ betrays Dillinger, leading to his demise.
• Homer Van Meter (Harry Dean Stanton): A member of Dillinger’s gang with the motto ‘Things ain’t working out for me today!’
• Baby Face Nelson (Richard Dreyfuss): The psychopathic and violent member of Dillinger’s gang.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Homer Van Meter: “Goddamit! Things ain’t workin’ out for me today!” – His repeated line conveys his frustration and bad luck during their criminal escapades, especially when things go wrong.
• John Dillinger: “These few dollars you lose here today, they’re gonna buy you stories to tell your children and your great-grandchildren.” – Said during a bank robbery, highlighting Dillinger’s view of his actions as creating legends.
• Pretty Boy Floyd: “I have sinned, but enjoyed it” – Pretty Boy Floyds’s last words while saying that it’s too late for the bible.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $11,000,000
• Worldwide Gross: $11,000,000

💥 Dillinger Reviews

Personal Review

I went into this movie expecting a typical gangster flick, but I was blown away by Warren Oates’s performance. He just *owned* the role of Dillinger. The shootouts were intense, especially the Little Bohemia scene, and the ending was gripping. I actually felt a little sad when Dillinger met his end. Definitely a must-see for fans of the genre!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of gangster movies”
  • “Viewers interested in Depression-era crime stories”
  • “Those who appreciate gritty, action-packed films”
  • “Fans of Warren Oates and Ben Johnson”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Gun violence”
  • “Brief partial nudity”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “Milius’s ‘Dillinger’ is a raw, explosive take on the infamous bank robber, blending historical details with exaggerated action for a thrilling, albeit flawed, gangster flick that benefits from Oates’s charismatic performance.
• IMDB: “Oates delivers a charismatic performance of notorious bank robber John Dillinger. Johnson brings intensity to the role of G-Man Melvin Purvis. The violence is graphic, and the pacing is relentless.

Audience Reactions

Warren Oates’s performance as Dillinger is captivating and authentic.: Viewers were impressed by the film’s fast pace and action-packed sequences.

The supporting cast, including Richard Dreyfuss as Baby Face Nelson, adds depth to the story.: The movie is praised for its gritty realism and portrayal of the Depression era.

Overall Consensus: A compelling, action-packed gangster film with memorable performances and intense action, but some historical liberties are taken.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “J. Edgar Hoover protested against the film and demanded script changes to depict the FBI more favorably.”
• “Shortly before his death, Hoover recorded a disclaimer to the film, which is heard after the closing credits, denouncing gangster films.”
• “The film depicts John Dillinger being shot after pulling his gun, but in reality, Dillinger never pulled a gun that night.”
• “To save money, director John Milius also took on the director’s chair so that AIP would only have to pay one man rather than two.”

🖥️ How to Watch Dillinger?

As of my last update, ‘Dillinger’ (1973) may be available for streaming or purchase on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, or through various digital retailers. Check these services for rental or purchase options. Also, keep an eye out for physical media releases (DVD, Blu-ray) through retailers like Amazon or major brick-and-mortar stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Dillinger, you might like these similar films:

• Bonnie and Clyde (1967): A seminal film in the gangster genre, focusing on another infamous duo during the Depression era.
• The Public Enemy (1931): An early gangster film that explores the rise and fall of a criminal, capturing the era’s moral complexities.
• Public Enemies (2009): A more recent film about John Dillinger, providing a different perspective on the same historical events.
• The Untouchables (1987): Features a determined lawman battling gangsters during the Prohibition era, showcasing similar themes of justice and corruption.

🛒 Dillinger Related Products

• John Dillinger: The Definitive Biography: A gripping, detailed account of Dillinger’s life, separating fact from myth, for fans who want the real story.
• Tommy Gun Toy – Replica 1920s Submachine Gun: A realistic non-firing replica of the iconic Tommy Gun, perfect for display or costume.
• 1930s Gangster Costume Set: A complete vintage style 1930’s Gangster Costume set with fedora hat, suspenders and Bow Tie
• Dillinger: Public Enemy Era – The Board Game: Compete with other players in a battle to see who can be the biggest bank robber during the public enemy era.

🎧 Soundtrack

Dillinger features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “The Gold Diggers’ Song (We’re in the Money)” – performed by Harry Warren & Al Dubin
• “Happy Days Are Here Again” – performed by Ben Selvin

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Former FBI Agent Breaks Down Gangsters’ Body Language | Tradecraft | WIRED

Ever wonder what John Dillinger was *really* thinking? This former FBI agent breaks down his body language and it’s super interesting! I never thought about body language in that way.

John Dillinger 1934 Killing Recalled

Can you imagine being *there* when Dillinger was shot? This guy was, and he tells his story. It’s crazy to hear it straight from someone who witnessed history.

The Exact Spot Where John Dillinger Died – REAL Crime Scene Locations in Chicago 4K

They actually went to the spot where Dillinger met his end! Seeing it in person gives you chills. I’m surprised how normal it looks today.

John Dillinger’s Funeral (Mooresville Moments 17), by Mooresville Public Library

Ever wonder what happened after Dillinger died? This shows his funeral, and it’s a pretty somber glimpse into that time. It’s wild how many people showed up!

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