Public Enemies Premieres In London - Marion Cotillard Johnny Depp Christian Bale

Johnny Depp has said he found playing a bank robber "fascinating" in his new film Public Enemies,The star was speaking at the movie's European premiere in London's West End, where he was greeted by hundreds of screaming fans.The actor stars as John Dillinger, the charismatic bank robber whose lightning raids made him the number one target of J Edgar Hoover's fledgling FBI and its top agent Melvin Purvis, who is played by Christian Bale.Dillinger's charm endeared him to girlfriend Billie Frechette, played by Marion Cotillard, and captivated an American nation suffering financial hardship.Depp said of the role: "I had a sort of fascination, not so much that he was a criminal... that this guy took up arms against the establishment and he did it with a smile."There was a sort of twinkle in his eye which I find interesting."Depp also paid tribute to Michael Jackson, who died last week. His role as Willy Wonka in Charlie And The Chocolate Factory has drawn some comparison with the singer.But Depp said: "He was not the inspiration for Willie Wonka. I wish I could say I was inspired by him for the role. I was inspired by him because he was a great artist."He also put to bed rumours that he was interested in starring as the late singer in a film based on his life.He said: "As far as playing him in a movie that is such an obtuse rumour that I never had the pleasure of cultivating it's not my idea you know."Cotillard, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose, wore a strapless red gown on the red carpet.Asked about Depp's Oscar chances from the film, she said: "I don't think we think about awards right now. People can love the movie and have emotions and great feelings... there is action, romance and an amazing character, Dillinger."Asked if Depp was as charismatic off-screen as on, Cotillard said: "He's a very nice person, a very, very nice person