Heat (1995)
Bank heists were meant to be done in suits.
Presentation:
Although this is “THE” heist film, I am in the minority that does not love this film like its cult fans. Anamorphic, deep focus, there is nothing stunning with the visuals of this film, which utilizes mostly dialogue motivated cinematography. There are some long dramatic pans and filmmaking sensibilities that provide the inspiration for future Nolan films, but at its core, the thrilling action sequences are mostly assisted with zoomed lenses. The soundtrack is mediocre and some of the characters feel extra, particularly the antagonists, which end up feeling one dimensional. By spreading the attention thin, these side plots are to the detriment of the compelling leads, especially toward the redundant love interests that bring the entire momentum to a halt. But what we do have is exceptional style with dapper suits making you also want to rob a bank. It has the atmosphere of a previous generation of blockbuster where the cinematic language just hits differently. The film is obviously highlighted by a tremendously executed bank sequence, but that was not enough to make me overlook the pacing issues and meaningless character arcs.
Story:
Logistically there are some very unrealistic aspects of this heist film, you also have some unnecessary dramatic elements, which I don’t think added much to the story. What’s the purpose of having the backstory for the 2nd driver if he’s going to get killed off so quickly? I also find myself taken out of the experience that the officers don’t recognize Val Kilmer at the end when the whole reason for them being there was specifically to find him. They obviously have photos of him from previous reconnaissance. Is De Niro’s love interest really convincing anyone? Al Pacino’s character trues too hard to be charismatic for this role, apparently his entire coke-up backstory was edited out. Plot armor is apparent, absurdly lucky opportunities and uncharacteristic decisions deflate the well built tension. De Niro is supposedly disciplined and yet makes such a brash choice just for a final showdown. The core of the movie is really between De Niro and Al Pacino, whom are both parallels with the same drive and determination yet weaknesses with women. This aspect is well done, but I felt cheated by the final encounter. The shadow in their battle made the result less rewarding than it should have been.
Conclusion:
A great heist film during its blockbuster nascence, but doesn’t hold up to scrutiny in modern times. It very well deserves a 4 for 1995, but thats not how these rankings work. I don’t think this film is better than Inception or Nolan’s Batman trilogy despite clearly influencing them. Those that like this film will absolutely love this film, not for the action, but rather the battle of its two leads. Al Pacino and De Niro are magnetic forces that keep you watching through the weak parts of the plot. Their performances and face-off absolutely carry the story, but it can feel as though they are trying a bit too hard to be slick and smart. However, the bank heist is legendary enough to warrant a watch for cinema lovers. The influence of that scene knows no bounds.
Recommendations
Bank heists were meant to be done in suits.