Johnny Depp set to film in Aurora next month

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AURORA - The City of Lights should be glowing a little brighter next month when Hollywood star Johnny Depp comes to town. Depp plays John Dillinger in the movie “Public Enemies.” The movie deals with federal agents trying to take down notorious American gangsters John Dillinger, “Baby Face” Nelson and “Pretty Boy” Floyd during a booming crime wave in the 1930s. The Paramount Theatre will stand in for Chicago's Biograph Theater in the film. Dillinger was killed by federal agents as he stepped out of the Biograph Theater on July 22, 1934. Filming at the theater is slated for April 6 and 7. “They liked the beauty and historical accuracy of the theater for the time period,” Paramount Executive Director Diana Martinez said. “It is very exciting for the city of Aurora.” The Paramount Theatre opened Sept. 3, 1931. Designed by nationally renowned theater architects C.W. and George L. Rapp, the theater captures a Venetian setting portrayed in the art deco influence of the 1930s. Dave Fulton, publicist for “Public Enemies,” said he could not discuss details of the film. “We have not seen a signed contract (with the Paramount Theatre). We feel it is a little premature to comment on this,” Fulton said. Fulton also said he could not discuss when Depp would be at the Paramount for filming. “We are not allowed to talk about specific dates because of security details,” Fulton said. “Public Enemies” also stars Christian Bale as FBI agent Melvin Purvis. Academy Award-nominated director Michael Mann is helming the film.