Director: Michael Mann
Stars: Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore
It generally amazes me why I haven’t watched this yet. I like Michael Mann films, this should have been a much watch when I got the blu-ray ages ago. But work tends to get in the way of such fine things. That’s why weeks off work are great, you have the time simply settle down and watch engrossing films like this.
Heat is simply an epic tale of cops and robbers and everything around their fragile fractured lives. Pacino is too buried with his cop work to have a normal life; De Niro is too professional with his armed robberies to remotely consider one. Both technically the same type of person caught at the opposite ends of the law. And eventually their paths are destined to cross. Mann style, of course.
I’m not in a position to write a grand written statement of adoration for this film but what I will say is that it’s a grand virtuoso of crime in 90s cinema. The way the story engrosses many of the supporting characters is great, the perfect executed moments of chaos in the armed robberies, complied with Mann’s unique visual style. The muted dark colours, the raw and realistic feel to proceedings. A great ensemble cast of reliable actors. It’s Mann at his finest.
Of course the big talking point I can’t really ignore is that scene in the diner. One of two scenes Pacino and De Niro are actually on screen together and it’s simply amazing to watch. Just a simple conversation between two guys on the opposite ends of the law over coffee, getting to know one another a little bit and sharing. You’d expect them just to shout at one another but this calm, thoughtful discussion. It left me speechless.
Suffice to say, I really love Heat. Why didn’t I watch this film sooner?
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