The film was shot in various historical locations, which helped create an authentic 1930s atmosphere. The key filming location was Chicago, where Dillinger carried out his daring robberies. Another important location was Crown Point, Indiana, where the prison escape scenes took place. The Little Bohemia Lodge in Wisconsin was where Dillinger and his gang hid from the police, and tense shootout scenes were filmed there.
The theater in Chicago where Dillinger was killed was also restored for filming, adding realism. Filming also took place in other Wisconsin cities such as Milwaukee and Madison, providing a diverse backdrop for the film's events. The choice of real historical locations helped immerse actors and viewers in the era, making the film more authentic and emotionally charged. Director Michael Mann paid attention to detail, making the film not only a crime drama but also a historical reconstruction.

Filming Locations:

Prison Escape

In the Movie

Scene where Johnny is in the Indiana State Prison. To help his accomplices, Dillinger uses a fake gun to intimidate the guards and orchestrate an escape. During the operation, his mentor Walter dies in a shootout with the guards, adding drama to the scene. After the successful escape, Dillinger and his gang head to a nearby farm, where they change clothes and rest before heading to a safe place in Chicago.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the prison located at 19647 Division St, Crest Hill, Illinois. This real prison was chosen for its historical significance and architecture, which effectively conveys the atmosphere of the 1930s. Its strict walls and guarded corridors create tension, enhancing the dramatic effect of the scene. The location in Illinois is also ideal for the plot, as Dillinger operated in Chicago and its surroundings. The escape scene demonstrates the courage and determination of the protagonist, as well as his ability to organize complex operations with his gang. The historical connection of the prison to real events makes it an important element of the narrative. The choice of this location contributes to creating a believable and emotionally charged film.

Bank Robbery

In the Movie

Scene where John Dillinger and his gang rob the National Bank in New Carlisle. Dillinger, confidently commanding his accomplices, orders them to collect the money, demonstrating leadership and bravery. One of the gang members starts to panic when the alarm goes off, and tension rises. Dillinger reacts with cold determination, calming his comrade and continuing to execute the plan. The robbers quickly gather cash from the tellers while customers and bank employees are in shock. During the robbery, sounds of gunshots and screams are heard, creating an atmosphere of chaos. Despite the difficulties, Dillinger and his team successfully leave the bank by car, taking $10,000 with them.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in front of the Masonic Temple, located at 204 Washington Ave, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This historic building, built in 1925, is ideal for recreating the 1930s atmosphere due to its Art Deco architectural style. The authenticity of the temple with its characteristic architectural elements helps create a believable backdrop for the robbery scene. The historical significance of the building adds context to the events, emphasizing the connection to real events from John Dillinger's life. The location in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, allows the plot to be linked to places where Dillinger actually operated. The exterior of the Masonic Temple with its majestic facades creates an atmosphere of tension and anticipation, enhancing the effect of the scene.

Movie Theater

In the Movie

Scene where Dillinger leaves the movie theater, unaware that FBI agents are already waiting for him. Anna Sage, who betrayed his location in exchange for a promise not to deport her, was dressed in specific clothing so the agents could easily spot them. As soon as they stepped outside, the agents opened fire on Dillinger. As a result of the shooting, he was hit four times, one of which was fatal. Dillinger's death was instantaneous, and his body remained on the asphalt until it was taken away.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the real Biograph Theater in Chicago, where the historical events took place on July 22, 1934. It was here, after watching the film Manhattan Melodrama, that Dillinger was shot by FBI agents. The choice of this location adds authenticity and historical accuracy to the scene, allowing viewers to feel a connection to real events. The theater is ideal for the final scene due to its architecture and atmosphere, which convey the spirit of the 1930s. Its bright neon lights and crowds of people create tension and drama, enhancing the surprise of the attack. The location also symbolizes the end of the gangster era and the culmination of the confrontation between the criminal world and the law. Filming at the actual place where Dillinger died makes the scene more emotionally charged and significant.