Heat 2: Heat is arguably one of the most successful heist films ever made. Released in 1995, Michael Mann’s magnum opus is all set to get a sequel if the latest dish from Daniel Richtman is to be believed. In what could be a match made in movie heaven, Al Pacino is reportedly in final negotiations to reunite with Michael Mann for the sequel to the iconic 1995 crime drama, Heat. There is no word on De Niro’s involvement yet. But it should be an easy decision for him to make the cut given his relatively clear schedule and iconic partnership with Pacino.
Pacino’s return to the role of Vincent Hanna would be a highly anticipated event for fans of the original film. Pacino played Vincent Hanna in the original film, a nemesis to and admirer of De Niro’s Neil. Heat espoused a strange connection and familiarity between the two men. Mann crafted the plot around the mutuality of their conditions, and among other highlights of Heat, their pairing is numero uno. From what we can gather right now, the sequel is said to feature flashbacks of Vincent and Neil’s younger years. Chris, who was played by Val Kilmer, is also set to make a central appearance. This means that we will get another A-list cast from the contemporary roster.
Austin Butler, who is still reeling from his success as Elvis Presley, might be attached to the project, although nothing is confirmed. There are no names floating around for the roles of Vincent and Neil as of now. The sequel is based on Mann’s recently published novel, which follows the events of the original film and features both prequel and sequel elements. It will primarily focus on Hanna and Chris Shiherlis. The book is said to take place both before and after the original film. One thing that is uncertain right now is how both the protagonists will feature together.
Since the process of adapting the book is not complete yet, one has to look to the source for cues. Heat 2, the novel continues from the point Heat ends. The story follows the lives of Vincent Hanna and Chris Shiherlis, with a focus on their younger years, and explores their complex relationship as they navigate the criminal underworld of Los Angeles. The novel delves deeper into the characters’ motivations and backstories, providing a more nuanced and detailed exploration of their lives than the movie. As of now, there is no information available about the plot of the potential movie adaptation of the novel.
Mann confirmed in a recent interview that he is working on turning his novel into a movie, and financing for the project is reportedly not a concern due to the large fanbase of the original film. Mann’s most recent film, “Ferrari,” is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September after being picked up for a UK release by Sky Cinema. Mann was also one of the executive producers of the brilliant HBO series Tokyo Vice released last year in April. It starred Ansel Elgort and Ken Watanabe in central roles, and the series was picked up for a second season shortly after season 1 ended. The filming began in November of last year, although it is yet unclear when it will conclude.
One thing is for sure: Heat 2 is not going to release anytime soon. Since the filming is yet to begin and the specifics around the sequel are yet to be finalized, do not expect it to come out for the next two years. Mann could be targeting a possible release date in 2025 if all things go well.
