Told you I was never goin' back... (Heat (DVD))

Member Name: ElChupacabra

Product:	Heat (DVD)
Date:	30/07/09 (5 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Deniro & Pacino

Disadvantages: None

This movie is on my list of favourites.

I will not attempt to rehash plot desciptions given in other reviews and than to say this is a classic cat and mouse movie. However, this movie stand well above any of its contemporaries. Quite simply it is brilliant.

The Deniro factor

For me this is one of Deniro's last great roles. He just has that star quality about him that oozes through in Heat. He's such a fine actor that he can blend into any role. This is one he does wonderfully. You truly understand that whilst this tough guy still have a heart under his steely exterior, he is also, when it comes down to it, ruthless and coldblooded. For me Deniro edges it over Pacino in this movie.

Pacino

Now, having said that Deniro edges it, I still will say a lot for Pacino. The trouble with Pacino in his later roles is that he is always playing a version of himself. However, that isn't so bad as he does it extremely well. Pacino helps us easily to understand that Vincent Hanna is actually just the other side of the coin from Deniro and when you watch the film at no point do you think that either is taking the limelight from the other and both are terrific in their roles.

Support

Val Kilmer I have never been a particularly big fan of, but he delivers a reasonable performance. The rest of the support cast are wonderful though, paritcularly Jon Voight who has a real creepyness about him in this picture.

Plot

Well, in reality the main plot isn't very much at all. Deniro and his gang are commiting crimes and Pacino is out to catch them. Basic script eh? Well actually no, because what is good about the script is all the sub-plots, from the double crossing gang member, to the ex-con driver and Pacino's step daughter. All are interwoven into the main plot to helo us properly understand the emotional realities of the two men's worlds.

Cinematography

Wow, Michael Mann sure knows how to get the best out of his filmmakers. Los Angeles is dark and manacing in this movie and you really believe its a nasty, lonely, heartless place to be. A cold city in despair. Excellant work.

Music

I just love the sountrack to this movie, from Moby's tracks to the haunting instrumentals the music alone reminds you how wonderful this movie is, but when played alongside the key scenes of the film it just blows me away.

The Coffee Shop scene

A lot of people say that this movie is worth watching just for the Deniro/Pacino scene together. I agree. Unlike the dissapointing Righteous Kill, both were still on top of their game and this scene is eletrifying. Worth the DVD price any day.

Conclusion

A dark, emotional and revitting thriller. Not to be missed.

Summary: The finest cat and mouse film out there