Bullet-Riddled, Star-Studded Action Thriller On Netflix Will Keep You On The Edge Of Your Seat

By Chad Langen | Published

In Michael Mann’s crime movie Heat, which is based on a true story, film buffs were treated to a momentous occasion as two of the most iconic and celebrated actors in cinematic history, Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, shared the screen for the first time, bringing together their immense talent and on-screen chemistry. While the two actors have since collaborated on other films, such as The Irishman, it was Heat that initially united these Oscar-winning stars.

Heat is nearly a perfect movie, and it’s now available to stream on Netflix.

The movie, which has unquestionably solidified its place as a classic in the genre, is available to stream on Netflix, providing an excellent opportunity for both new and longstanding fans to witness the powerful dynamic between Pacino and De Niro.

Heat revolves around the lives of a professional bank robbery crew and the dedicated Los Angeles police unit tasked with bringing them to justice. The crew, led by a meticulous and strategic master thief, Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro), plans and executes high-stakes heists, expertly evading law enforcement and leaving little evidence behind. Meanwhile, the police unit, headed by a seasoned detective, Lieutenant Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino), is relentless in their pursuit, working tirelessly to anticipate and thwart the crew’s next movie.

heat 2 robert de niro
Robert de Niro in Heat

As the plot of Heat unfolds, Neil and his crew plan their most ambitious heist yet, aiming to steal $12 million from a bank. The stakes are high, and the crew knows that any mistake could lead to their capture. Simultaneously, Vincent and his team are closing in, gathering evidence and piecing together the crew’s pattern of behavior.

Without question, Heat stands as a cornerstone in the crime genre, its influence evident in countless other movies.

The tension between the two sides culminates in a dramatic confrontation that tests the limits of their respective codes of honor and morality. Neil and Vincent, both highly skilled and deeply committed to their professions, find themselves locked in a battle of wits and wills. The outcome of their confrontation will determine not only their own fates but also the fates of those around them.

The cast of Heat is a spectacular ensemble of some of the finest actors in Hollywood. Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, both at the top of their game, bring depth and intensity to their roles. Supporting them, Val Kilmer, Jon Voight, and Tom Sizemore, among others, deliver solid performances that contribute to the film’s overall excellence.

In addition to directing Heat, Michael Mann also wrote the screenplay for the movie. His vision and storytelling prowess are evident in every frame, from masterfully planned heist scenes to intense character-driven moments. Mann’s attention to detail, coupled with the talents of other key crew members, such as cinematographer Dante Spinotti and editor William Goldenberg, resulted in a film that is both visually stunning and narratively compelling.

The diner scene from Heat

Upon its release, Heat received widespread critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and intense, action-packed sequences. Critics particularly praised the film’s realistic portrayal of heist procedures and the strong performances of its lead actors. Audience reception was equally positive, with many viewers hailing Heat as a classic of the crime genre and praising its impact on subsequent movies in the genre.

Heat achieved moderate success at the box office, raking in over $187 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $60 million.

On Rotten Tomatoes, Heat boasts an impressive score of 89 percent from critics based on 96 reviews, while the audience score is even higher at 94 percent. One of the few critiques from both critics and ordinary viewers is the desire for more shared screen time between Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. Thankfully, the iconic duo has since shared substantial screen time in other films, such as Righteous Kill and The Irishman.

Heat achieved moderate success at the box office, raking in over $187 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $60 million. This result was commendable, given the film’s R-rating, which can often restrict a movie’s earning potential. The combination of a stellar cast, favorable reviews, and its current status as a classic has further cemented its financial success in the years since its initial release.

Without question, Heat stands as a cornerstone in the crime genre, its influence evident in countless other movies. Its intricate plot, fully fleshed-out characters, and breathtaking action sequences, bolstered by stellar performances from the cast, solidify its reputation as one of the best crime movies ever made. Heat is not just a must-watch for fans of crime movies but for anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking.