Washington, Jun 24 : `The Dark Knight' star Christian Bale has earned himself praise from the family of the real life FBI agent he portrayed in his new movie `Public Enemies'.

Bale, 35, plays Agent Melvin Purvis, the man who tracked down legendary 1930s bank robber John Dillinger, who is portrayed by Johnny Depp in the movie.

Bale spent time with Purvis' relatives in preparation for the role and even visited the late law enforcer's grave with his son Alston, who was delighted with the on-screen results.

"Bale had my father's mannerisms and accent down to the exact detail. He is a superb actor. He wanted to see my family home in South Carolina. We went to the cemetery to see my father's grave," Contactmusic quoted Alston as saying. (ANI)