The film begins with John Dillinger orchestrating a daring escape from an Indiana prison with a group of fellow inmates. Once free, Dillinger resumes his criminal activities, robbing banks across the Midwest with his gang, including Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd. His brazen robberies and charismatic persona make him a folk hero to the public, but a thorn in the side of J. Edgar Hoover’s newly formed FBI.
FBI agent Melvin Purvis is assigned to lead the manhunt for Dillinger. Purvis is determined to capture Dillinger and restore the FBI’s reputation, but he faces numerous challenges as Dillinger continues to evade capture and outwit law enforcement at every turn.
As the FBI closes in on Dillinger, tensions rise between Dillinger and his associates, leading to betrayals and violent confrontations. Dillinger falls in love with Billie Frechette, a coat check girl, and they embark on a passionate but tumultuous relationship.
Despite his efforts to stay one step ahead of the law, Dillinger’s luck eventually runs out. In a dramatic shootout outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago, Dillinger is gunned down by FBI agents. His death marks the end of an era of legendary outlaws and the beginning of a new era of law enforcement.
The film concludes with Purvis reflecting on the events that led to Dillinger’s downfall and the impact of his actions on the American psyche. “Public Enemies” offers a gripping portrayal of one of America’s most notorious criminals and the law enforcement agents who pursued him relentlessly.