Review of Mesrine: Public Enemy #1 (2008) by Jose F — 11 Apr 2012

Mesrine is an interesting film for me, as I really donâ(TM)t enjoy Crime Thrillers usually, or they donâ(TM)t interest me, but this one did. The film is split into two parts, 113 minutes for part 1, 133 minutes for part 2.

At the start of the film Mesrine is quite slim, but gradually gains weight throughout, ending up looking overweight by the end for his size. Now, the main reason to watch this film is simple: Vincent Cassel is brilliant in it.

Anyone who watched him in Black Swan may or may not think much of him, but this is a better representation of his abilities. This is almost like his Raging Bull, he immerses himself into the character and portrays him very well, Mesrine isnâ(TM)t actually that likable a character, but Cassel makes him interesting throughout and is very impressive.

Worth a look just for him, the other actors, even Depardieau, either arenâ(TM)t important or donâ(TM)t measure up. And that is a hell of a compliment to Vincent Casselâ(TM)s ability in this film.