Heat

Rating: 7/10 (24 March 1999)

I really like Michael Mann's "return" to his Miami Vice roots with this entertaining police-drama. While many dismiss it because of its length, I contest that it moves quicker than any three hour plus film I've seen in recent years. Pacino plays the hot shot "Sonny Crocket-like" cop on the hunt of a master thief and criminal, played by Robert DeNiro in a great plum of a role. Mann's film is interesting because like the classic 1980's drama, it shows both sides of the story. The cops and the robbers. It shows that outside of their work, there is more to life than busting people or killing people or money. DeNiro's Neil has nothing because he's never known anything but treachery and fear. Pacino's Vincent is the same thing. Failed marriages. Failed opportunities. All that both of these men have is their work and they're damn good at it.
The film moves at a super pace. Every cast member has their moments to shine and there's plenty of guest stars to this drama: It's nice to see Jon Voight again. Ashley Judd and Val Kilmer are both fine. Michael Madsen is menacing as a member of Neil's gang. This film has all the elements of good drama, tough action and edge of your seat suspense, with a pleasing conclusion. It's also nice to see two giants like Pacino and DeNiro go head to head with one another. Their coffeeshop scene is perfect. Wes Studi, Mykelti Williamson and Tone Loc co-star.