Dillinger is a 1945 movie directed by Max Nosseck.
Dillinger tells the rise and fall story of John Dillinger from petty crook to America’s most wanted bank robber. Lawrence Tierney plays the title character with a hardened, dominating menace. He creates a truly contemptible villain – one fitting with the era and decidedly slanted direction of Max Nosseck. There is no redemption even remotely suggested – Tierney’s Dillinger is a cold-blooded killer and thief.
THE BEST – It’s Tierney’s World
The orbit of Dillinger is all-consuming. There’s little oxygen left for the remaining characters. Tierney’s Dillinger dominates conversations. Some of the best:
“John, I don’t think we should do this.” “I don’t care what you think.”
“I’d like to know where I am.” “You’re with me.”
“Why don’t you take that poster down?” “I like it there.”
THE WORST – The Disguise
For a movie that boasts a surprising grit and hard moments of realism, Tierney’s comic mustache and glasses when he’s finally killed is mostly hilarious. This facet of the ending is a strange departure from the rest of the movie’s tone – along with a stain on Tierney’s otherwise hard-boiled, authentic performance.
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING -4.25/5
Dillinger is highlighted by an outstanding performance by Tierney. The supporting cast is passable and despite the era’s insistence on social commentary, Dillinger maintains a unique authenticity and menace.
