...a slick and engrossing film, yet manages to leave the viewer feeling somewhat unfulfilled...

Rating: 8/10 (13 January 2007)

Any film starring both Robert De Niro and Al Pacino is going to attract attention and, inevitably, demand a high-quality script. The dynamics between the two in this classic 'cops and robbers' tale are intriguing, though the dialogue arguably doesn't quite do the actors justice. Val Kilmer also delivers a beautifully understated performance.
The plot is simple and effective. Thief, Neil Mcauley (De Niro) plans an ambitious bank heist with his loyal group of outlaws. Dt. Hanna (Pacino) is the man responsible for stopping the execution of the robbery and establishes an interesting relationship with his adversary. The personal lives of both men are also set against the action as a number of sub-plots develop.
At just under 3 hours long, director Michael Mann does a great job of pacing the film all the way through to its thrilling climax and the soundtrack compliments the picture's style perfectly.
'Heat' is a slick and engrossing film, yet manages to leave the viewer feeling somewhat unfulfilled and, to its credit, keeps you guessing long after the credits have rolled.