ingenius sprawling crime epic from Mann.

Rating: Null/10 (19 February 2003)

From the director of the acclaimed "Manhunter" (I'm not gonna get into that debate!), "Heat" is a superbly crafted Crime Thriller which places more emphasis on characterisation than actual violence or action. At a little under three hours it may seem slightly long but you will be rewarded with a beautiful looking film which boosts the superb cinematography of Dante Spinotti and excellent performances from the legendary Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
Saying that, when there is action it is capably handled by Micheal Mann. Mann displays his powers of being stylish without having to resort to CGI or flashy camera movements. Yet again (for a Mann film) the soundtrack compliments the onscreen action beautifully. The film also boosts an impressive array of brilliant supporting actors (Tom Sizemore, Val Kilmer, Ashley Judd, Tom Noonan etc.).
The only possible flaw is the fact that there is too much going on and the narrative drive of the film sometimes gets side tracked as characterisation takes centre stage.
Still it is one of my favourite films and well worth a look.