Review of Mesrine: Public Enemy #1 (2008) by Martin K — 19 Oct 2009

4 stars for both films together as well.

Fascinating 2 film character study of a bank robber who carved his name across 2 continents in the 60s and 70s, escaping from prison numerous times and becoming a celebrity as result and France's first public enemy number 1. But that wasn't enough. He proclaimed himself a revolutionary and feeedom fighter, but that was just wishful thinking and/or a need to know that he was more than just a mere criminal?

Vincent Cassel gives the performance of his life (as you'd expect) and has already started winning awrds for it. I expect more to follow. He's ably supported by most of the French acting community including fantastic turns from Gerard Depardieu and Mathieu Amalric.

This duo of films will surely also put its director on the map: Jean-Francois Richet. He's already been to Hollywood for the recent Precinct 13 remake, these films prove he doesn't have to rely on America for his future, as well as proving we don't have to rely on Hollywood for our entertainment.

OOOhhh, controversial...