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Public Enemies Movie With Johnny Depp - The Book Behind the Movie

2009-06-06T20:49:00Z

This article was in Vanity Fair and is quite informative about the book behind the Public Enemies movie with Johnny Depp that was filmed in Crown Point

Director Michael Mann (left) and actor Johnny Depp (right), with Jeff Scalf, nephew of the Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger.

There’s always a slight tension when you sell a book to Hollywood, especially a nonfiction book. The author wants his story told intact; the nonfiction author wants it told accurately. A moviemaker, though, has to have his own storytelling priorities, and these may or may not be the same as the author’s. And when the book, one I wrote called Public Enemies, tells the story of legendary American gangsters like John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson, there’s every reason to believe those priorities will diverge.

Because, let’s be honest, Hollywood has a poor track record of telling these stories accurately. Bonnie and Clyde, while one of the best movies ever made, was far more interested in portraying Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker as romantic anti-establishment Robin Hoods than what they really were: white-trash spree killers. Dillinger, who will be the focus of the Public Enemies movie the director Michael Mann is now preparing to shoot in rural Wisconsin, hasn’t fared any better. I only dimly remember the 1945 Lawrence Tierney Dillinger, and, thankfully, I never saw the 1990s-era Dillinger starring, of all people, Mark Harmon.

The Dillinger most people remember was John Milius’s 1973 movie, starring Warren Oates as Dillinger. A terrific film, I grant you, but it had little basis in fact. Both the hippie princess Michelle Phillips, as Dillinger’s hard-living girl Billie Frechette, and stolid Ben Johnson as the F.B.I.’s Melvin Purvis, were woefully miscast. The story itself ignored most every fact of Dillinger’s career. Milius was more interested in the look and feel of Dillinger’s Depression than accuracy.

Which is the main reason I was so pleased when Michael Mann bought the rights to Public Enemies. (And not just because his check didn’t bounce.) Mann, whose reputation for historical accuracy arose from his filming of 1992’s The Last of the Mohicans, has rooted his screenplay in the facts of Dillinger’s life. He will film at the actual Little Bohemia lodge in northern Wisconsin where Dillinger, in his most famous gunfight, shot it out with the F.B.I. And at the real Crown Point jail in Indiana where Dillinger staged his most famous escape.

Just the other day, Mann and his Dillinger, Johnny Depp, stopped by the old Dillinger homestead in Mooresville, Indiana, where they chatted with the outlaw’s nephew, Jeff Scalf, and poked their way through the home where Dillinger was raised. The French actress who will portray Billie Frechette, Marion Cotillard, meanwhile, has been spotted at the Wisconsin Indian reservation where Billie grew up, interviewing women there in hopes of picking up Frechette’s vocal inflections.

I’ve read the Public Enemies script and, no, it’s not 100 percent historically accurate. But it’s by far the closest thing to fact Hollywood has attempted, and for that I am both excited and quietly relieved.

Link to the Official Site for Public Enemies Movie Clip and Information

2009-06-06T20:41:00Z

Here is a link to the official site for Public Enemies that shows the movie trailer
http://www.publicenemies.net/

John Dillinger Public Enemies Movie Coming to Crown Point, Indiana- Sneak Preview in Merrillville

2009-06-06T20:35:00Z

C.P. sponsors early screening of 'Public Enemies'

* Movie filmed in city will raise funds to restore Old Sheriff's House.

Comments

May 27, 2009

By DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK Post-Tribune staff writer

CROWN POINT -- Only the first 600 lucky people who buy tickets will get to see an advanced local screening of "Public Enemies" the day before its release nationwide July 1, the city announced Tuesday.

Crown Point teamed up with The Old Sheriff's House and Jail Foundation and the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority to highlight the fact that scenes from the movie, showcasing notorious outlaw John Dillinger, played by Johnny Depp, were filmed in the Old Lake County Jail, from which Dillinger actually escaped.

"Universal Studios gave us their blessing and it's a go," Sheriff's House Foundation spokesman Dan Rohaley said.

Kerasotes Showplace 12, at 2590 Southlake Mall Drive, Hobart, will offer two showings June 30 of the action-thriller from director Michael Mann, which also stars Christian Bale and Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard.

The first showing is slated for 6 p.m. and the second for 9 p.m. Tickets for the first show are $50, including concessions and a pass to the John Dillinger Museum inside the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond, plus a voucher to tour the Old Sheriff's House and former Lake County Jail. The 9 p.m. showing will set moviegoers back $75 each or $125 a couple, but offers a lot more glitz.

Those ticketholders will get to attend a VIP cocktail party at the Hall of Justice, where guests 21 and older will enter on a Hollywood-style red carpet, according to Crown Point's director of special events Jennifer Young.

Mayor David Uran will formally welcome guests, who will be eligible to win door prizes.

"The best part is that all the proceeds will go toward the continued restoration of the Sheriff's House," Rohaley said.

"Ever since the film wrapped last year we've been talking about what we can do," Young said. "Universal Studios was so accommodating.

"This is a once-in-a lifetime event," Young said. "There were thousands of people out there watching during filming every day.

"Years from now kids will go back there where their parents were kids watching the filming. It's a legacy to their children."

Young said the event is a piece of history, in perfect timeing with the 175th anniversary of the city of Crown Point.

"I can't think of a more amazing way to market it," Young said.

"Public Enemies" is rated "R" and no one under age 17 will be admitted without a parent or guardian.

Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Mayor's Office of Special Events, 662-3290 or the Crown Point Parks Department, 661-2271.

Contact Diane Krieger Spivak at 648-3076 or dspivak@post-trib.com Comment on this story at www.post-trib.com.

Crown Point's Hall of Justice Hosts Johnny Depp and Region Idol

2008-04-19T00:59:00Z

Singing up a storm: Hall of Justice readies for Region Idol

April 4, 2008

BY BOB KOSTANCZUK Post-Tribune staff writer

The former Lake County Criminal Court building at 220 S. Main St. has reverberated with excitement this year.

While in Crown Point to film "Public Enemies," Johnny Depp stopped by a section of the structure that is now used as a banquet hall.

"He ate directly under the chandelier in the middle of the room -- just sat at a big, round table," said Phil Struebig, who, along with his wife, Joi, owns the building.

The cinematic superstar dined in what is called the Hall of Justice -- a support area during the recent filming. Actors, crew, wardrobe and makeup wound up there.

The Hall of Justice also happens to be the home of the fourth annual Region Idol competition.

With auditions tonight and the start of the actual contest next Friday, Region Idol is based in a building that may still be radiating show-biz vibes from the shooting for the Universal Studios release.

Crown Point's Hall of Justice boasts even more buzz: John Dillinger -- who's played by Depp in the movie -- was arraigned there in 1934. The old county jail where Dillinger escaped from is next door.

Those competing this year in Region Idol are hoping to make their own bit of noise by doing well in the singing contest that's based on Fox's wildly popular "American Idol."

The trio of judges for Region Idol is intended to mimic the television panel -- Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.

Returning this year will be veteran judges Tracy Payne and Marc Malone, both of Crown Point. They'll be joined by new Region Idol judge Vince Galbiati, president of the Northwest Indiana Forum.

Galbiati realizes contestants have their hearts in it.

"They're taking this seriously," he said. "I will be taking it with equal seriousness."

The judges have seasoned performers to review for the '08 edition. That's because some contestants who did well last year plan to return.

"We have numerous finalists that have signed up again for this year, so the talent's gonna be top-of-theline," said Struebig, who directs the contest, while his wife serves as producer.

New in 2008 is the OK for an entrant to use a single musical instrument like guitar or harmonica.

"We hadn't allowed that prior to this time, but now they can," Struebig, a Crown Point resident, said.

Self-confidence can be built by competing in Region Idol, said Erika Scheeringa, public and community relations manager for the Lake County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Watching contestants is also intriguing, she said.

"People have their favorites; they like to kind of follow their story," Scheeringa noted. "So you get a little piece of what they're like, where they come from and kind of what they do."

Proceeds from the contest benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Indiana chapter.

A Top Male Vocalist and Top Female Vocalist will be named. An overall winner will be crowned Region Idol on the final night of the competition, slated for Friday, May 23.

Contact Bob Kostanczuk at 648-3144 or bkostanczuk@post-trib.com

Region Idol rundown

Where: Hall of Justice, 220 S. Main St., Crown Point

When: The competition runs consecutive Fridays from April 11 through May 23. Show time is 7 p.m.

Admission: $5 for those watching auditions and nights of competition, but $10 for the final night. Larger donations are also accepted.

Charity: Proceeds benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Indiana chapter.

At stake: More than $2,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded.

Auditions: 7 p.m. tonight at the Hall of Justice

Deadline extended: Those wishing to test their talent will have more time to sign up. Entries will now be accepted through Thursday. The entry fee is $25. Contestants must be at least 21 years old. More details: www.RegionIdol.com or 661-1811.

Region Idol theme nights

The music performed by contestants will vary; here's the tentative schedule.

April 11: Singer's choice

April 18: Country

April 25: '70s disco

May 2: '80s pop

May 9: Rock 'n' roll

May 16: Motown sound

May 23: Two different themes -- Rat Pack (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr.) and singer's choice

Johnny Depp Offering Autographs to Fans in Crown Point

2008-03-27T20:57:00Z

Additional Johhny Depp Update:

We have found out that yes, he was giving autographs. The person we spoke with shook his hand and handed him a pic and pen and Johnny did sign for her.

As mentioned before - we know he was meeting fans in the evening and shaking hands.

What a pleasure to have such a class act of a guy in Crown Point!

Did you go to the filming? Get an autograph? Have a Johnny Depp sighting? Be sure to comment and let us know!

Johnny Depp Continues to Mesmerize Crown Point, Indiana

2008-03-26T18:42:00Z

Johnny Depp continues to mesmerize Crown Point!

In response to a question from Grace regarding autographs - is Johny giving any autographs out? We personally do not know - maybe a reader does -if so - please comment and let us know.

Last night my daughter waited with the crowd and was able to shake hands with Johnny Depp - Needless to say she is still speechless today. If you have talked with Johnny, shook his hand, got an autograph - please comment as many, many readers are asking for information.

In the meantime - we'll look for more info and post it here as soon as we find out.

Depp Video Clip - Class Act

2008-03-25T07:31:00Z

As you'll see when you click on this YouTube link - Johnny Depp is simply a class act and takes time to acknowledge his fans. The child at the end of this clip is simply beyond cute!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ZedkW8-SRVU

On location for the filming of Public Enemies in Crown Point, Indiana, Reilly meets Johnny Depp, AKA John Dillinger.

Public Enemies Wisconsin Filming Pics

2008-03-25T07:16:00Z

This is a neat link that shows pictures of filming in Wisconsin for Public Enemies

http://flickr.com/photos/9868664@N02/

Read below for numerous Crown Point, Indiana updates on the filming of Public Enemies

New Depp Photos

2008-03-25T07:13:00Z

New Photos of Johnny Depp as John Dillinger in Michael Mann’s Public Enemies

Posted on Monday, March 24th, 2008 at 12:33 pm by: Hunter Stephenson

How fun is this dude’s job? Over at AICN, yet more spy pics have surfaced of Johnny Depp as ’30s gangster John Dillinger along with some of his fellow goons in Michael Mann’s Public Enemies. Still no sign of co-star Christian Bale’s fed. The wardrobes, fedoras, cars and tommy guns are all spot on; even the money bag looks mind blowing. Okay, maybe that’s utter hyperbole but if someone told you “the bag is yours if you tap dance and whistle” we’d have a Slashfilm jamboree on our hands.

You can also find set photos on Flickr, here and here.

Tags: Images, Set Photos, Thriller, Mystery/Suspense, Drama, Action/Adventure, Johnny Depp, Michael Mann, Public Enemies

9 Comments Print Listen

9 Responses to “New Photos of Johnny Depp as John Dillinger in Michael Mann’s Public Enemies”

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roman Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 12:39 pm

This just made my day. How awesome does this look? Can’t wait.
Video Blog Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 1:07 pm

great pics, im sure its been mentioned but can someone remind me when this will hit theaters?
alcaTsar Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 1:20 pm

Like I’ve said - this is possibly Mann’s most commercially accessible flick to date. Hope it rakes in the moolah so he can make his Dicaprio led 1930’s Hollywood noir flick.
Captain Awesome Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 4:38 pm

And I just finished watching The Last of The Mohicans

(again)
CHERY RUSSELL Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 5:12 pm

HELLO JOHNNY…….FROM YOUR OLD FRIEND CHERYL RUSSELL FROM MIRAMAR, FL..
Jennifer Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 7:56 pm

He is so HOT. I wanna be his moll …
Brian Rodden Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 8:20 pm

Michael Mann. Johnny Depp. Christian Bale. This movie is gonna be awesome. The tommy guns are sick. I wish there were more movies with tommy guns.
Zac Shipley Says:

March 24th, 2008 at 9:26 pm

I was an extra for a scene shot last wednesday. Dillinger’s Araignment in Crowne Point Indiana. Lili Taylor was also in the scene, playing Sheriff Holley.

I’m writing up my experience tomorrow, and I’ll shoot you guys a link when I’m done.

Johnny Depp Public Enemies Crown Point Filming Continues

2008-03-25T07:03:00Z

The Hammond Times is all over this! Here's another great article - be sure to read the other ones below too. The Hammond Times really deserves credit for the great coverage of the filming in Crown Point.

BY KATHLEEN QUILLIGAN
Kathleen.Quilligan@nwitimes.com
219.662.5331 | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 |

CROWN POINT | The city will make an estimated $28,608 from the filming of the movie "Public Enemies."

(Visit our John Dillinger special section to read stories, watch videos, view slideshows and more about Dillinger and the movie, "Public Enemies.")

The city's Board of Public Works signed a location agreement Thursday with PE Productions LLC for the use of city-owned property at 590 E. Anderson St. during the filming of the movie, which stars Johnny Depp and details the life of infamous bank robber John Dillinger and his escape from the Lake County Jail in 1934. The agreement, released Monday, outlines the terms of using the building and how much the city stands to make.

According to the agreement, the city will earn $2,000 for allowing the movie to use the building for four days. The remaining amount paid to the city is for personnel costs -- for public works employees, a member of the Crown Point Fire Department, eight Crown Point police officers and Crown Point emergency management.

"The plans the city had are working as well as can be expected," Keith Stevens, the mayor's chief of staff, said during filming Monday. "We've never been through this before."

Although it's an otherwise quiet residential street, one end of Anderson bustled Monday as men moved giant panels off a truck and into the building numbered 590, which is labeled as belonging to the Lake County Highway Department. A man working on a truck with "Universal Studios" written on the door said the building is where cars are stored for the scene where "Dillinger steals the sheriff's car."

The agreement says the company will have completed any filming at the building by Thursday and has the right to duplicate the property if necessary.

"Michael Mann is a very meticulous director about detail. Johnny Depp is a very meticulous actor about detail. It will add something special to the film that they did go to the expense and time and effort to film in Crown Point," said David Fulton, a "Public Enemies" publicist.

FOLLOW THE MONEY
Here's how Crown Point will make money from "Public Enemies":
-- Use of a utilities garage at 590 E. Anderson St. for four days at $500 per day, or $2,000
-- Four public works employees for eight hours a day for three days, $3,073
-- One Crown Point firefighter for 12 hours a day for four days, $1,408
-- Seven Crown Point police officers for 14 hours a day for four days while shooting, $14,974
-- One Crown Point police officer for 10 hours a day for four days for nighttime security, $1,528
-- Road project set up, road blockages, 911 dispatch additions, $3,625
-- Crown Point Emergency Management, $2,000

Johnny Depp Public Enemies Crown Point Filming Day Two

2008-03-25T06:30:00Z

You have to just love John Watkins from the Hammond Times aka NWI Times - he did a great job showing exactly the reaction to Johnny Depp. The article is below. Be sure to check out the two links also - simply excellent coverage!

CROWN POINT | While most of the region still was sound asleep, about 75 area residents gathered under a bright moon in 20-degree temperatures early Monday in hopes of doing a little star gazing.

Movie star gazing, that is.

(Visit our special section)

(Watch the video)

As the day grew, so did the number of fans waiting behind barricades in Crown Point in front of the Old Lake County Courthouse and jail.

Actor Johnny Depp is playing John Dillinger in "Public Enemies," which is filming this week at the site of the notorious bank robber's most legendary jailbreak.

The fans got their wish just before 11 a.m., when a black Ford Expedition pulled up in front of the old sheriff's house on Main Street and out popped Depp.

The crowd, numbering in the hundreds -- some of whom had been waiting for nearly 12 hours -- erupted into loud cheers as Depp dashed into the old sheriff's house.

Nicole Vega, 15, of Crown Point, and her sister Megan, 22, arrived downtown about 4 a.m.

"It's the most fascinating thing in Crown Point since Dillinger broke out of jail and (Rudolph) Valentino got married at the courthouse," Nicole Vega said. "I just hope I get to see Johnny Depp. Even if I don't, this is still the most exciting thing to happen on my spring break."

While word in and around the set was that filming would be taking place solely indoors, those who braved the chilly early morning temperatures weren't about to budge.

Katy Krekel, 20, traveled Sunday from Louisville, Ky., with her 13-year-old sister, Anna, to watch some of the filming. The sisters arrived in Crown Point at 7 p.m. and slept in their car.

"It's Johnny Depp," Krekel said. "I've been a fan since I was 5."

The pair traveled to Wisconsin last week to watch some of the filming there and got to see Depp shooting a chase scene.

"We saw him drive by in an old car, and then they were pulling the car on like a big flat-bed and they were filming that," she said.

Anissa Gray, of Crown Point, brought her 11-year-old daughter, Marissa Kozlowkski, downtown about 5:30 a.m.

"I have an 8-month-old, so I figured if I didn't get her up for this, the baby would get me up anyway," Gray said. "I've been in Chicago and New York when they were filming movies, and I wanted her to see what it is like."

Some fans were less interested in the acting or the filmmaking process, like the girls with signs adorned with glitter paint pressed against the snow fence reading, "Johnny, hug me please! You're beautiful!" and "I love Johnny."

Still, Crown Point police said there were no problems overnight into Monday morning. Several officers joked that they were thankful for the overtime pay they were getting working in and around the set, paid for by the movie production company.

"It's good for the city," Crown Point police Cpl. Larry Gonzalez said. "We had people starting to line up around 12:30, but they've all been fine."

Gonzalez said he got to take a tour of Dillinger's old jail cell in the sheriff's house.

"They've got it all remodeled and really looking nice," he said. "The time and effort they took in cleaning it up is going to benefit the city for years to come.

"We should be thankful for this project."

Johnny Depp Filming in Crown Point - Update

2008-03-25T02:52:00Z

Johnny Depp is in Crown Point and the filming is in day two of three from what we've been told by movie staff and security. Security is heavy around the area but it's still a festive environment.

Crews were setting up cameras next to the south side of the old Sheriff's House late this afternoon.

We saw a snow making machine on a flatbed truck just south of the set. The amount of equipment these guys travel with is simple mind boggling - truck after truck after truck of equipment was set up around the set and a street over.

People in costume were milling on the porch and going in and out of the Old Sheriff's House. We noticed Sunday that crew was building a little porch on the left side of the building so we are guessing it was needed for the filming.

It appeared most of the filming today was done inside the Old Sheriff's House. We watched a lot of actors on the porch and going in and out of the building.

The area around the Old Sheriff's House and Old Criminal Court Building is heavily secured. Crowds were thick in front of the Old Sheriff's House and were kept on the other side of the street across fro the filming. One woman stated she had been there since seven forty five this morning and it was late afternoon when we were on the scene. She was grinning happily as she stated this and we can understand why - this is probably a once in a lifetime opportunity for Crown Point and area residents.

Even though the crowds were thick - the crowds were cordial, polite and quiet. There was definitely a feeling of respect and admiration for Johnny and the rest of the crew.

Security was quite kind - we spoke with several of the security staff and give them credit - they are working some long hours and are doing it with a smile on their faces even after twelve hours or more of handling crowds and answering question after question from curious public.

Phil Strubig is the owner of the Criminal Court Building - a well known and liked long time Crown Point resident and businessman - he has been putting in long hours to ensure the cast and crew of Public Enemies has all the help needed to make this a success. Phil and his wife Joi bought the Old Criminal Court Building a few years back - it's been a labor of love for them over the years as they have restored what was a vandalized mess.  There is a banquet hall (main floor) and a great speakeasy restaurant on the lower level (open Wednesday eve through Saturday eve). There is also a cozy tavern next to the banquet hall. The Strubigs have definitely created not one but three class acts - hall, tavern and restaurant.

Were you there today? Did you see Johnny?   Be sure to comment and let us know!

Kathy was there and she saw Johnny!!!!!! What perfect timing!!!!!- she commented below - click on Comments for her update and be sure to add your update, comments - are you going to the filming? Why or why not? Do you think the movie is a good thing for CP or not? Let us know what you think!

Johhny Depp Arriving In Crown Point Week of March 23 to Film Movie Public Enemies

2008-03-24T02:51:00Z

Johnny Depp Coming to Crown Point

CROWN POINT (AP) – City officials are keeping quiet about the possibility that filming for a movie starring Johnny Depp as bank robber John Dillinger could start as early as this weekend.
The city's Board of Public Works and Safety voted to approve an agreement between Mayor David Uran and Universal Studios that runs through March 29.

After months of keeping information about the filming for "Public Enemies" under wraps, Uran still held back when he told the board Universal "might come into the city for filming."

But Lester Johnson of Goshen, a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees Union Local 476, said he was told filming would begin Monday.

Uran said the agreement says the city is willing and prepared to provide services if a movie "might be coming to our city." Public safety personnel and road closures are examples of services that might be needed.

David Fulton, a "Public Enemies" publicist, said the studio usually hires local law enforcement to supplement existing security. He said people will be allowed to watch the filming as long as they stay outside the barricades, stay quiet and follow directions from security or production assistants.

While city public works director Jay Olson said portions of several streets are scheduled to be closed at some point during the next week, Uran said the courthouse square will remain open.

Olson said Main Street will be closed Saturday morning so the studio can begin to recreate a cobblestone street.

Work crews have spent weeks refurbishing a portion of the Old Sheriff's House and County Jail, from which Dillinger escaped on March 3, 1934, while he awaited trial on charges that he killed a police officer during a Chicago bank robbery.

Fulton wouldn't say whether the stars of the film -- Depp, recent Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard and Christian Bale -- will be in Crown Point for the filming.

The movie is a screen adaptation of Bryan Burrough's 2004 book "Public Enemies: America's Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-34."

Hundreds of people were in Columbus, Wis., this week to watch filming there. Depp was on the scene on Monday.

Johnny Depp Starring In Public Enemies Filming in Crown Point Indiana

2008-03-24T02:49:00Z

Found by Emma at the Post Tribune
Movie-set stagers scout region for Dillinger film

March 5, 2008
By DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK Post-Tribune staff writer

CROWN POINT -- Do you happen to have a vintage machine gun case lying around the house?

How about a 70-year-old boot knife?

Universal Studios is looking for props for the upcoming Johnny Depp movie, "Public Enemies," about notorious outlaw John Dillinger.

Actually, the studio is looking for photographs of 1930s items with the intention of reproducing the props. Those they can't reproduce they'll buy, lease or borrow, said Rita Ritz of Rita Ritz Enterprizes Inc.

Ritz, of Chesterton, is handling the acquisition of props for a portion of the movie that's being filmed in Crown Point this spring.

Ritz said Universal Studios contacted her about six weeks ago because of research she had done on Dillinger in the past.

She's now the clearing house for a list of props that will be used, or reproduced, for the movie.

Bruce Woods, director of the Lake County Historical Museum, said Universal also contacted him about six weeks ago, and a representative came to the museum and took photos of Dillinger-related items.

"We have a lot of that," Woods said. "He was doing research for the movie."

So far, there are few indications of what's to come. Workers are restoring a portion of the old Lake County Jail from which Dillinger escaped.

"I saw a couple of guys standing across the street a few days ago holding up their hands like this," said Susan Vydra, owner of Antique & Unique Treasures, holding her hands up in front of her face, forming a frame like artists do.

"A lot of people are excited about it," Nancy Levine, an employee of the Antique Mall of Crown Point, said. "The restaurants and shop owners are hoping it brings people to Crown Point to shop. And of course, they're coming to see Johnny Depp," she said.

"I love Johnny Depp," said Mary Lou White of St. John, who stopped to talk about the movie with an employee of the Candy Cove in the Old Lake County Courthouse.

"I thought they were filming at the courthouse," White said. "I didn't know where the old jail was. I'm going to try to keep up with everything. Everybody's excited about it."

From WIFR
Actor Depp To Drive Dillinger's Car Save Email Print
Posted: 9:04 PM Mar 4, 2008

Actor Johnny Depp will be making a getaway to Wisconsin in a famous historic car from right here in the stateline. Depp will get behind the wheel of a 1932 Studebaker Commander, later this year in the filming of a movie about gangster John Dillinger. The movie is called "Public Enemies." It is to be shot on location in the Badger State and the car is part of the collection at the historic auto attractions....

"It will be used in the same context in the film as it was in real life which makes it really unique," said museum curator Eric Hoffman.

At that time it was the biggest bank heist ever....about $75 thousand was taken. Not long after that robbery, Dillinger was gunned down by police outside of the Biograph Theater in Chiacgo after being fingered by the infamous "lady in red."

From The Chicago Sun Times
Most wanted

March 4, 2008
BY STELLA FOSTER Sun-Times Columnist

THE DEPP MAN: SEXY ACTOR Johnny Depp, who is in town to film director Michael Mann's movie "Public Enemies," in which he plays the infamous gangsta' John Dillinger, has been busy getting to know the happening spots in our great town and where to find great Italian food. Depp, who has always made the ladies swoon and was Oscar-nominated for his starring role in "Sweeney Todd," dined at the tasty LaScarola on Grand Saturday with Mann. (Actual filming might start around March 17.)

Depp and Mann, who is a masterful director and known for such films as "Miami Vice," "Ali," "Collateral," and "Heat," were in with a few other actors and dined hearty on pasta, veal chops and steak. I understand from one of the customers, who enjoyed just looking at the gorgeous Depp, that he was very congenial ... but folks were respectful and didn't bother him for autographs. How nice.

Also, around midnight Friday, Depp, wearing his trademark hat, enjoyed hearing Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Kurt Elling at the Green Mill. And once again, patrons allowed Depp to just enjoy the ambience and the music.

From JSOnline
Great faces sought for Depp film
Auditions are Friday for extras; no lines to learn
By DUANE DUDEK
Journal Sentinel film critic
Posted: March 3, 2008

The Johnny Depp film "Public Enemies" is looking for a few good extras.

Auditions for nonspeaking roles in the film will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Italian Conference Center, 631 E. Chicago St.

"Public Enemies," which is set in the 1930s, with Depp playing John Dillinger, will begin shooting in Wisconsin in mid-March.

Auditions were held in Madison last month.

The requirements for Friday's audition are specific.

First, the casting directors are looking for "people with great faces."

Men should no taller than 6 feet 1 inch tall, and women no taller than 5 feet 8 inches tall and no larger than a size 12.

Men should wear a dark suit, overcoat and dress shoes. Hair should be kept long. Women should wear a dark dress or skirt and sweater, overcoat and medium heel. Women are advised to set their hair in curlers the night before and come to the audition with their hair brushed out.

Also, you need to bring a recent color photograph of yourself.

For more details, go to the Web site of the casting agency, Joan Philo Casting, www.joanphilocasting.com, and click on the "Public Enemies" icon on the left.

The casting agency's Web site says the movie's crew will be shooting in Chicago and in "various towns" in Wisconsin. So far, the only Milwaukee-area shooting location that has been announced has been the Milwaukee County Historical Society, 910 N. Old World 3rd St.

Based on Bryan Burrough's book about the FBI's pursuit of crime figures such as Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, and Pretty Boy Floyd, "Public Enemies" is being directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker and University of Wisconsin-Madison alum Michael Mann. Also in the cast are Christian Bale, whose Batman sequel "The Dark Knight" opens this summer; and Marion Cotillard, who won an Academy Award last month for best actress for her performance in "La Vie en Rose."

From These Boots Are Made For Stalking
(photo appears to be photo-shopped)

Chi-Town Johnny Depp Sightings

Johnny Depp is in the Windy City and seems to be enjoying some of our finest restaurants. Depp dined at Gibsons on Sunday night in a private room upstairs. “He had a great time,” a source told The Boots Girls.

Depp also dined at Chicago’s famed Italian restaurant La Scarola over the weekend. Yum!

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 4th, 2008

From the South Bend Tribune
Lake County set for Depp visit in Dillinger's role

CROWN POINT, Ind. (AP) — Johnny Depp will be in town this spring to recreate gangster John Dillinger's infamous 1934 escape from Lake County Jail for his upcoming film "Public Enemies."

Depp will play Dillinger, and the scene will be shot at the Old Sheriff's House and Jail. No specific dates have been released, but filming will take place from March through June in Chicago, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Dillinger, an Indiana native, escaped the heavily guarded northwestern Indiana jail March 3, 1934, while he awaited trial on charges that he killed Officer William Patrick O'Malley during an East Chicago bank robbery.

He then drove away in Sheriff Lillian Holley's new Ford. A few months later, federal agents fatally shot him outside a Chicago theater.

Work crews started preparing the red-brick jail for its movie close-up last Monday.

"I wish we could say (the restoration) will be complete, but it'll be mostly the entry and upstairs," location scout George Constas said.

The jail's neighbor, the Hall of Justice Bar and Ballroom, will host up to 200 actors, crew members and technicians.

"Hollywood's coming to Crown Point," co-owner Philip Struebig said. "It's going to be a heck of a thing for Crown Point. It will put us back on the map."

Depp is probably best known for starring roles in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series, "Finding Neverland" and "Edward Scissorhands."

His co-star in "Public Enemies" will be this year's Oscar-winner for best actress, Marion Cotillard, who is playing Dillinger's moll.

From Hollywood Today
Hollywood Today
Victims Furious as Oscar Winner said 9/11 Faked, New Depp Movie Targeted
Sunday, March 2nd, 2008

First Responder calls comments by Marion Cotillard calling 9/11 a US fake “ignorant and despicable” and would support picketing of her upcoming movie with Johnny Depp

By Jeffrey Jolson

marion-cotillard.jpg

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 3/2/08 — Oscar 2008 Best Actress Marion Cotillard, set to co-star with Johnny Depp in a film shooting in Chicago next week, is making headlines not with that movie “Public Enemies,” but by becoming one in America with her comments that the United States fabricated the 9/11 attacks for financial and political reasons.

“This could be a powder keg issue for thousands of firefighters and the families of victims who may picket her next film with my full support,” said 9/11 first responder/fireman Mike Lennon who later made a documentary on the events surrounding the horrific disaster. “Having human remains in my hands on a dozen occasions makes her ignorant statements despicable.”

Cottilard, who won the Academy Award for Best Actress last Sunday for playing singer Edith Piaf in “Le Vie en Rose”is in the news for comments she made a year ago to French TV that have surfaced with a vengeance. She contends the U.S. destroyed the World Trade Center buildings and killed its 5,000 occupants because the towers needed costly rebuilding.

Speaking to French TV, she questions if everything about 9/11 was a fake. “It was a money-sucker because they were finished, it seems to me, by 1973, and to re-cable all that, to bring up-to-date all the technology and everything, it was a lot more expensive, that work, than destroying them.”

It gets more bizarre: “I think we’re lied to about a number of things,” said the 32-year-old actress. “We see other towers of the same kind being hit by planes. Are they burned? They [sic] was a tower, I believe it was in Spain, which burnt for 24 hours. It never collapsed. None of these towers collapsed. And there [in New York], in a few minutes, the whole thing collapsed.”

She is set to play Depp’s girlfriend in the major US studio shoot starting next Monday, which brings up the question of should Universal Pictures stick with a contracted co-star that may draw picketing by 9/11 victim’s families to its premiere and showings everywhere?

That is suddenly a very real prospect, and not one Uni is likely to bet $100 million dollar-plus on. Depp, who gets $20 million per film, plays 30s gangster John Dillinger in “Public Enemies,” and Cotillard is scheduled to play his belle Billie Frechette.

“She has a fundamental right to come over here and film a movie, but for her to say 9/11 was a government conspiracy, you have to ask, why does she want to come here and shoot a movie?” said Lennon, who made a firefighter perspective doc called “Brothers on Holy Ground.” There will be backlash and she will suffer the consequences of what she said.”

Apparently feeling she had not sufficiently torpedoed her budding career as a Hollywood leading lady, she went on to explain in the interview that the moon landings in 1969 were another US hoax. She said: “Did a man really walk on the Moon? I saw plenty of documentaries on it, and I really wondered. And in any case I don’t believe all they tell me, that’s for sure.”

Expect her to do some emergency back-pedaling this week. Cotillard, who is very popular in France and born and raised in Paris, made the comments on TV show Paris Première - Paris Dernière, in a program broadcast a year ago.

Johhny Depp to Arrive In Crown Point to Film Dillinger Movie Week Of March 23

2008-03-24T02:29:00Z

Johnny Depp Coming to Crown Point

After months of keeping information about the filming for "Public Enemies" under wraps, Uran still held back when he told the board Universal "might come into the city for filming."

But Lester Johnson of Goshen, a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees Union Local 476, said he was told filming would begin Monday.

While city public works director Jay Olson said portions of several streets are scheduled to be closed at some point during the next week, Uran said the courthouse square will remain open.

Olson said Main Street will be closed Saturday morning so the studio can begin to recreate a cobblestone street.

Fulton wouldn't say whether the stars of the film -- Depp, recent Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard and Christian Bale -- will be in Crown Point for the filming.

The movie is a screen adaptation of Bryan Burrough's 2004 book "Public Enemies: America's Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-34."

Hundreds of people were in Columbus, Wis., this week to watch filming there. Depp was on the scene on Monday.

Depp Filming John Dillinger Movie in Columbus Then on to Crown Point, Indiana

2008-03-19T21:41:00Z

COLUMBUS, Wis. - Hundreds of people flocked to this small southeastern Wisconsin city to watch the filming of "Public Enemies," braving chilly, damp air to catch a glimpse of its megastar, Johnny Depp.

"We think we saw him standing up there a couple of times but we don't know for sure," said Breanne Flint, 25, who was with her sister Kristy Ballweg, 19, shivering behind a yellow police line about a block away from some crew and equipment.

Flint, of nearby Marshall, said they were staying "until we're certain we've seen him."

"Oh god, we'll be here all night then!" Ballweg responded.

People arrived early Monday, some at 2 a.m., to stake out a spot in the downtown of this city 70 miles northwest of Milwaukee.

Crew and security kept onlookers about a block away. Crew reported to the set at 6:30 a.m. and they planned to film until dark, according to the film's publicist, Dave Fulton. They planned to return Tuesday.

Depp was filming driving scenes Monday in the downtown area, which had been transformed to a 1930s era city. Crew had put down rubber cobblestone, replaced awnings with old-fashioned ones and erected facades on downtown buildings, already more than a century old.

The movie is a screen adaptation of Bryan Burrough's 2004 book "Public Enemies: America's Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-34." It describes the FBI's transformation when confronted with crime sprees by bank robbers John Dillinger, Charles Arthur "Pretty Boy" Floyd and Lester "Baby Face Nelson" Gillis. It is being directed and produced by University of Wisconsin graduate Michael Mann, and co-stars Christian Bale and recent Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard.

Depp stars as Dillinger, who escaped the heavily guarded Crown Point, Ind., jail on March 3, 1934, while he awaited trial on charges that he killed a police officer during a Chicago bank robbery.

He then drove away in the sheriff's new car, at one point using a northwoods Wisconsin lodge - Little Bohemia at Manitowish Waters - as a hideout. A few months later, federal agents fatally shot him outside a Chicago theater.

The movie is the first to be filmed in Wisconsin since tax incentives for filmmakers took effect in January.

When Depp drove by Monday morning in the 1930s-style car while filming, Fulton said he heard squeals, but otherwise the crowd was well-behaved. Bale and Cotillard were not on the set Monday, he said.

Groups of people, many students on spring break, gathered at locations around the set, trying to stay warm in 35-degree temperatures. Sometimes security would herd people more than 100 feet away or wouldn't let people cross streets temporarily. Many people gathered in the nearby library to keep warm.

"To wake up on a Monday morning and know that Michael Mann and Johnny Depp are in your community ... is kind of mindboggling," said Kate Lueders, liaison to Columbus Mayor Nancy Osterhaus.

She said she was on the set all morning and came within 10 feet of Depp, but didn't disturb him because she heard he stays in character. She said an HBO crew was on the set to film for a behind the scenes show.

Filming has brought in people from around the area, some driving three or four hours to get here.

"I have not heard of one business that has not made money," Lueders said.

Sam Bush, 43, and his stepdaughter Lindsey Kassner, 21, arrived around 4 a.m. Bush had the day off and Kassner took the day off. Wrapped in blankets, they sat in folding chairs behind a "road closed" sign - Lindsey with her binoculars and celebrity magazines and Sam with his newspapers.

Kassner said it's not often they get to be so close to a movie set so the cold was worth it.

"Maybe he'll wave at us out of the car," she said.

Filming is also expected in Darlington later in the week, and later in Oshkosh, Milwaukee and Madison, as well as Indiana and Illinois before it wraps up by July.

It could bring in an estimated $20 million to the state, according to Scott Robbe, executive director of Film Wisconsin.

It is one of the most high-profile movies to film in the state and likely will bring in the most revenue, Robbe said.

Crown Point Indiana Region Idol Contest April 2008

2008-03-09T22:41:00Z

Crown Point, Indiana is THE place to be in 2008. Johhny Depp will be filming a new John Dillinger movie in Crown Point sometime this spring and the well known and popular Region Idol contest is back!!!! This contest is fun for entertainers as well as those in the audience. Do yourself a big favor - come early/stay late - Eat at SpeakEasy 200 the kick butt speakeasy restauarnt located in the basement of the building that the Region Idol is in. Excellent steak, fish, chicken and daily specials - you can't go wrong with a visit to SpeakEasy 220!!!! Below is some info we found online about the 2008 Region Idol Contest in Crown Point, Indiana - See you there!!!!!

Region Idol is Back!

Call out for singers begins in April

CROWN POINT – The 4^th Annual Region Idol contest returns to the Hall of Justice in Crown Point to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Indiana State Chapter (NMSS). Similar to the popular TV Show, American Idol, contestants will compete before a panel of judges in order to win the title “Region Idol.”

The 2-day auditions will be held on Thursday, April 3^rd and Friday, April 4^th^th^rd. More than $2,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to the Top Female Vocalist, Top Male Vocalist and an overall winner will be named “Region Idol” on the final night of competition.
from 7pm to 10pm at the Hall of Justice located at 220 South Main Street in Crown Point. The contest will run each consecutive Friday beginning at 7pm on April 11 and ending May 23

Entrants must be at least 21 years of age to enter and a $25 entry fee is due with the entry form by Friday, March 28^th. Forms can be found at the following locations; Rubino’s Music, Merrillville; Albert’s Jewelers, Munster; the Hall of Justice, Crown Point or by calling 219-661-1811. Entry forms can also be filled out online at the regional idiol site.

Those who plan to attend the auditions and competition, there will be a $5 donation required at the door and a $10 donation on the final night of competition (higher

donations are also accepted). The net proceeds benefit the National MSS - Indiana Chapter. Since 2005, Region Idol has raised more than $30,000 toward charitable programs. To learn more about Multiple Sclerosis log on to www.nationalmssociety.org/ini.

The 2008 Region Idol is produced by Philip and Joi Struebig and current sponsors include: The Hall of Justice/Speakeasy 220, the Post-Tribune, Doppler Internet, Albert’s Jewelers, the City of Crown Point and Rubino’s Music.

Feb. 11th, 2008

John Dillinger Movie Starring Johnny Depp To Be Filmed In Crown Point, Indiana

2008-03-02T05:16:00Z

CROWN POINT | Johnny Depp, aka John Dillinger in the Universal film "Public Enemies," is hitting Crown Point this spring reportedly to reprise the gangster's bold 1934 escape from Lake County Jail.

The scene will be shot on location at the Old Sheriff's House and Jail, 226 S. Main St., sources said. Universal declined to comment on specifics.

The front part of the Second Empire-style building housed the top cop in Dillinger's era. The back holds the cells from which the bank robber fled in broad daylight.

Dates for the Crown Point shoot are under wraps. But director Michael Mann has targeted the old Lake County Criminal Court, 220 S. Main St., as his headquarters during a three-day stay. Reborn the Hall of Justice Bar and Ballroom in the early 1990s, the jail's neighbor will host up to 200 actors, crew members and technicians.

"Hollywood's coming to Crown Point," said Philip Struebig, co-owner of the Hall of Justice. "It's going to be a heck of a thing for Crown Point. It will put us back on the map."

He is banking on hosting a reception for three-time Oscar nominee Depp, 44, during the shoot. "We're ready to rock 'n' roll," he said.

Work crews arrived Monday to prep the red-brick jail for its close-up. By Thursday, a dozen tradesmen were measuring timber on sawhorses for a new drop ceiling and walls. The chug of a portable generator and buzz of a circular saw all but drowned out jokes about tommy guns.

"I wish we could say (the restoration) will be complete, but it'll be mostly the entry and upstairs," Universal location scout George Constas said Thursday.

The Depression-era cells -- one which housed Dillinger -- are rating kid-glove treatment. The restoration team will make them "look pretty, but not too pretty" for the period drama. "It'll just look like a jail," said Constas, standing in the gutted foyer. "Concrete and bars."

Indiana native Dillinger escaped the heavily guarded jail March 3, 1934, by brandishing a gun. Some say it was real gun smuggled into him; some say it was hand-carved.

He then embarrassed local authorities by driving off in Sheriff Lillian Holley's new V-8 Ford. The nonprofit Sheriff's House Foundation oversees the registered landmark today.

Philip and Cynthia Jo Struebig, who purchased the courthouse in 1990, said they met with Mann before Christmas to discuss local Dillinger sites that might be incorporated into the film. The "Miami Vice" producer toured the old courthouse, admiring the "Victory of Law Through Justice" mural before which Dillinger was arraigned, then inspected the jail.

Mann also borrowed a book and vintage photos of Public Enemy No. 1 from the Struebigs' collection of gangster memorabilia that adorns the Speakeasy Restaurant and Great Escape lounge within the Hall of Justice Bar. When they bought the old courthouse, "it was deteriorated. It was raining in the ballroom. We restored it as a labor of love. Never did I expect something like this would happen," Philip Struebig said.

Based on the book by Bryan Burrough, the crime drama will bow in 2009. The cast includes Christian Bale as G-man Melvin Purvis, who ambushed Dillinger outside Chicago's Biograph Theatre a few months after he fled the "escape-proof" Lake County Jail. Oscar winner Marion Cotillard, who collected best actress honors for her role as Edith Piaf in "La Mome," has been tapped as Billie Frechette, the gangster's lover and companion. "Public Enemies" will be filmed from March through June in Chicago, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Extra, extra!
Casting agent Joan Philo has issued an all-points bulletin for male reporters and photographers to play paid extras in scenes slated for Hammond, Gary and Crown Point. Also, an open casting call for men, women and children will be Saturday at Lane Tech High School in Chicago. See the Chicago Scene column in the ontheGo section for details.

WEBSITES

2006-10-27T23:21:00Z

Please browse through some of our other websites which are listed below. We strive to provide up to date information and update sites often. Crown Point Blog will be back soon. We are currently working on John Dillinger research as well as Crown Point history research.

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