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Heat

Heat

19958170 min
DrammaAzioneCrime
Uscita
15 dic 1995
Paese
United States of America
Produzioni
Warner Bros. PicturesRegency EnterprisesForward Pass
Il ladro maestro ossessionato Neil McCauley guida un team d'élite in numerose rapine audaci a Los Angeles, mentre l'investigatore determinato Vincent Hanna lo insegue inesorabilmente. Ogni uomo riconosce e rispetta le capacità e la dedizione dell'altro, anche se sono consapevoli che il loro gioco di gatto e topo potrebbe finire in violenza.

About

Quick guide

A tense cat‑and‑mouse game between a master thief and an LAPD detective in 1995 Los Angeles.

Heat follows Neil McCauley, a meticulous thief who leads a crew of professional criminals in a series of daring heists across Los Angeles. Detective Vincent Hanna, relentless and seasoned, is tasked with bringing the crew to justice. Both men respect each other’s skill and resolve, but their pursuit is inevitable and fraught with moral complexity. The film explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the thin line between law and crime, all set against a gritty, realistic backdrop of 1990s L.A.

What to know

  • Runs 170 minutes – expect a slow‑burn pace.
  • Heists focus on high‑value bonds rather than cash.
  • Dialogue is dense and character‑driven.
  • The film balances action with investigative detail.
  • Language is strong and realistic.
  • Violence is intense but not gratuitous.
  • Moral ambiguity permeates both sides.
  • Soundtrack is integral to the atmosphere.

Watch if

If you enjoy long‑form, character‑heavy crime dramas with a realistic depiction of police work and heists, and you appreciate subtle tension over flashy spectacle, Heat offers a compelling study of skill and obsession.

Skip if

If you prefer fast‑paced action, clear moral lines, or light, entertaining crime stories, this film’s methodical pacing and intense, mature themes may feel slow or heavy.

crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyintense actioninvestigation heavylanguage strongpsychological elementssuspensefulmature themesslow burn
Premise
Heat centers on Neil McCauley, a highly skilled thief who runs a crew of professional criminals in Los Angeles. The crew targets high‑value bonds, meticulously planning each operation. Detective Vincent Hanna, a dedicated LAPD investigator, is tasked with stopping them. Their mutual respect turns into a dangerous game of pursuit.
Cast
Al Pacino portrays Detective Hanna, while Robert De Niro plays Neil McCauley. Supporting roles include Val Kilmer as Chris Shiherlis, Tom Sizemore as Michael Cheritto, and Amy Brennan as Eady. The ensemble delivers nuanced performances that elevate the film’s tension and character dynamics.
Heist Mechanics
Each robbery focuses on stealing bonds rather than cash, as the crew’s precision and timing reduce risk. Their operations involve careful timing, specialized equipment, and strict discipline to avoid casualties. This emphasis on detail sets the film apart from typical heist tropes.
Police Pursuit
Hanna’s investigation is methodical, piecing together clues from crime scenes and witness reports. He relies on technology, forensic evidence, and his experience to anticipate the crew’s next move, creating a cat‑and‑mouse dynamic that drives the narrative.
Climactic Showdown
The film’s climax culminates in a tense gun battle at a drive‑in theater. The shootout showcases the film’s signature mix of realism, strategic planning, and psychological tension, pushing both sides to their limits.
Themes & Tone
Heat delves into loyalty, ambition, and the blurred lines between law and crime. Its gritty realism, long runtime, and atmospheric tone invite viewers to contemplate the moral costs of pursuit and survival.
Cinematic Style
Michael Mann’s direction employs long takes, low lighting, and a muted color palette to craft a realistic, immersive environment. The film’s pacing allows characters to breathe, reinforcing the psychological depth of the story.
Soundtrack
Composer Elliot Goldenthal’s score underscores the film’s tension and emotional beats. The soundtrack blends orchestral textures with contemporary elements, enhancing the mood without overpowering the narrative.

FAQ

55 Q&A
What advice did McCauley get about being a successful criminal?
McCauley was told to not have anything in his life that he can't walk out on in 30 seconds flat if he felt the heat around the corner. This means not getting too attached to things or people.
What happened during the armored car robbery?
During the armored car robbery, McCauley's crew ambushed the truck, but it turned out to be a trap. Police officers were waiting, and a violent shootout occurred. Two of McCauley's crew members were killed.
How does McCauley describe his job to Eady?
McCauley tells Eady that he's a "van-for-hire" driver, and that he's good at what he does.
What does Hanna's wife Justine resent about him?
Justine resents that Hanna's job as a cop takes him away from home a lot, and she feels alone. She also resents that he lives a life that is very separate from hers.
Why did Charlene want to leave her husband Chris?
Charlene wanted to leave her husband Chris because he was abusive and controlling. She also feared for her safety and the safety of her daughter.
What does Neil McCauley dream about?
Neil McCauley dreams about walking out of a room and leaving behind everything he owns. This reflects his desire to let go of his possessions and his criminal life.
Who are the main actors in the movie Heat?
The main actors in the movie Heat are Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Val Kilmer.
Who directed the movie Heat?
The movie Heat was directed by Michael Mann.
What is the name of Roger Van Zant's company?
The name of Roger Van Zant's company is Waingro Industries.
What recurring dream does Detective Hanna talk about?
Detective Hanna talks about a recurring dream where he is at home and his wife is leaving him. He says he wakes up just as he is about to be left alone.
What is the main conflict in the movie Heat?
The main conflict in the movie Heat is the intense cat-and-mouse game between a dedicated detective and a brilliant thief, as they both try to outmaneuver each other while dealing with their personal lives.
Who plays the informant Tone Loc in the movie?
The informant Waingro is played by Kevin Gage, not Tone Loc.
What does McCauley tell Eady he does for a living?
McCauley tells Eady he is a "van-for-hire" driver.
What is the movie Heat about?
The movie Heat is about a crew of highly skilled thieves who plan and execute elaborate heists, and the obsessive detective who is determined to bring them down. It explores their personal lives and the toll their jobs take on them.
Why is Heat considered an important crime film?
Heat is considered an important crime film for its realistic portrayal of police work and criminal activity, its complex characters, and its iconic action sequences. It also features a famous on-screen pairing of Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
How does Heat show the differences between police and criminals?
Heat shows the differences by contrasting the methodical planning and disciplined execution of the criminals with the often chaotic and emotionally charged pursuit by the police. It also highlights the personal sacrifices both sides make due to their dangerous professions.
When was the movie Heat released?
The movie Heat was released in December 1995.
What does Van Zant watch when McCauley confronts him?
When McCauley confronts him, Van Zant is watching a broadcast of a news report about the recent heist.
What happens to Justine's daughter Lauren?
Justine's daughter Lauren is taken by Justine's ex-husband, who intends to flee the country with her. Hanna works to get Lauren back.
What did Neil McCauley and his crew steal in the first heist?
In the first heist shown, Neil McCauley and his crew stole $1.2 million in bearer bonds from an armored car.
Who plays Michael Cheritto?
Michael Cheritto is played by Tom Sizemore.
What tattoo does Michael Cheritto have?
Michael Cheritto has a distinctive tattoo of a spade with wings on his chest.
Why did Neil McCauley go to the hospital at the start of the film?
Neil McCauley went to the hospital at the start of the film because he was recovering from surgery to remove shrapnel from his kidney, which he sustained during a previous job.
What does Hanna say to McCauley when he pulls him over?
When Hanna pulls McCauley over, he tells him, "I don't know how to say this, but I know you're in the life. I'm in the life too. And I’m sorry, but you know, I’m down to the last 30 seconds of my account."
What book is McCauley reading when he first meets Eady?
McCauley is reading a book titled "The Count of Monte Cristo" when he first meets Eady.
What movie inspired the North Hollywood shootout?
The movie Heat inspired the North Hollywood shootout.
What is the name of the real-life criminal Edward Bunker, who inspired a character?
The real-life criminal Edward Bunker inspired the character of Michael Cheritto.
Did the police have pictures of suspects in the 90s?
Yes, police had pictures of suspects in the 90s.
What is the main flaw in the movie Heat according to some viewers?
Some viewers find the movie Heat's plot to be too long and drawn out.
What role did Waingro play in the armored car heist?
Waingro betrayed his crew during the armored car heist, leading to deaths.
What is the main theme of the movie Heat?
The main theme of Heat is the intense connection and conflict between criminals and police.
Why did Neil McCauley go after Waingro instead of leaving the city?
Neil McCauley went after Waingro for revenge because Waingro killed his crew.
How long did it take to film Heat?
Heat was filmed over 100 days.
Who is Charlene Shiherlis cheating with?
Charlene Shiherlis is cheating with Waingro.
What is the '30-second rule' in Heat?
The '30-second rule' means a crew has 30 seconds to get in and out of a job without getting caught.
What is the significance of the ending of Heat?
The ending shows that even criminals can have a code, and Hanna respected McCauley's skills.
Where was Heat filmed?
Heat was filmed in Los Angeles.
How are the personal lives of the criminals and police affected in Heat?
The intense demands of their professions strain the personal lives of both the criminals and police.
Why did Michael Mann film Heat entirely on location?
Michael Mann filmed Heat on location to create a realistic and immersive experience for the audience.
Who were the real-life inspirations for Hanna and McCauley?
Hanna was inspired by Chuck Adamson, a real-life detective, and McCauley was inspired by career criminals like Edward Bunker.
What is the significance of the realistic sound design in Heat?
The realistic sound design makes the action feel more intense and believable.
Could there be a sequel to Heat?
A sequel to Heat is possible, as director Michael Mann has written a novel that continues the story.
What was the original title or inspiration for the movie Heat?
The movie Heat was inspired by a real-life North Hollywood bank robbery and a 1970s crime documentary.
What are McCauley's final words?
McCauley's final words are not explicitly stated in the movie.
What do the guns sound like in the movie Heat?
The guns in Heat sound very realistic and sharp due to careful sound design.
Why is the coffee shop scene considered unrealistic by some?
Some find the coffee shop scene unrealistic because such a direct, calm meeting between arch-enemies is unlikely.
How is the coffee shop scene between Hanna and McCauley significant?
The coffee shop scene is significant because it shows the mutual respect and understanding between Hanna and McCauley, despite being on opposite sides of the law.
What fake name does Waingro use at the hotel?
Waingro uses the fake name 'Bill R. Dinsdale' at the hotel.
How did Waingro know about the bank heist?
The movie does not explicitly state how Waingro knew about the bank heist, but he was part of the crew planning it.
Is the movie Heat based on a true story?
Heat is not based on a single true story but was inspired by real events, including the North Hollywood shootout, and the lives of real criminals.
What is the meaning of the yin and yang dynamic between Hanna and McCauley?
The yin and yang dynamic between Hanna and McCauley shows how they are opposites but also connected, like two sides of the same coin. Hanna is the disciplined detective, while McCauley is the skilled criminal. They chase each other, showing how good and bad are often close together and rely on each other in a way.
What are some common criticisms of the movie Heat?
Some common criticisms of Heat include that it is too long, that some of the characters are not well developed, and that the plot is sometimes hard to follow. Some also say that the violence is too graphic.
What is the role of the female characters in Heat?
The female characters in Heat often represent the personal lives and struggles of the main male characters. They are sometimes seen as anchors to a normal life that the men are trying to hold onto or escape from. Their roles can be supportive but also show the difficulty the men have in balancing their dangerous work with relationships.
How was the armored truck heist filmed?
The armored truck heist in Heat was filmed in downtown Los Angeles. The scene used real streets and buildings to make it look very realistic. The filmmakers used a lot of real-life details to make the action intense and believable.
How does the film portray violence?
The film portrays violence in a very direct and realistic way. The action scenes are intense and show the consequences of violence. It's not shy about showing blood and the impact of gunfights, aiming for a gritty and authentic feel.

Attori

Al Pacino
Al Pacino
Lt. Vincent Hanna
Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro
Neil McCauley
Val Kilmer
Val Kilmer
Chris Shiherlis
Jon Voight
Jon Voight
Nate
Tom Sizemore
Tom Sizemore
Michael Cheritto
Diane Venora
Diane Venora
Justine
Amy Brenneman
Amy Brenneman
Eady
Ashley Judd
Ashley Judd
Charlene Shiherlis
Mykelti Williamson
Mykelti Williamson
Drucker
Wes Studi
Wes Studi
Casals
Ted Levine
Ted Levine
Bosko
Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman
Lauren Gustafson