Heat

this film is literally cinema. Vincent and Neil (Al Pacino and Robert De Niro) were played perfectly. Interesting to see how Vincent had a genuine appreciation for Neil's methods in committing crimes, I personally find it pretty laughable. Vincent being so attached to his job and dedicated to catching Neil makes you wonder (not in the literal sense, as it is a criminal we're talking about here) as to why this is the case. Could there have been a potential opportunity for a brief backstory for this supposed chip on his shoulder? I can't say, but in all honesty, I loved their dynamic, especially in the coffee shop scene, as one may think it is a conversation between friends who had been separated by time and are catching up, with the occasional smirks they give each other as they feel commonality in their professions, but the tension peaks at Vincent's threat on Neil's life. Despite their great performances, Val Kilmer was easily the standout of this film for me. As much as Chris is made out to be a horrible person (your typical gambling junkie), his inability to make ends meet and provide a stable and secure life for Charlene (Ashley Judd) and Dominick clearly takes a toll on him throughout the film. Glimpses of this can be found in his conversations with Neil in the early stages of the film, and it finally crashing down on him, with the sorrowful moment of Charlene signalling Chris to leave. The drain of happiness from Chris' face is saddening, as it cements the end of their relationship. Paired with Charlene being close to tears as he leaves, this scene had minimal interaction, but brought significant pathos to the film. The bank robbery sequence is perfection, as it really captures the idea of 'cat and mouse' of a cops versus robbers type film that this is, with Vincent running throughout what seems to be a large majority of the scene in pursuit of Neil and Co. Val Kilmer again, was iconic and his involvement in the shootout was amazingly choreographed. the visuals were impeccable, with great camera work, and as many films from this era and genre do tend to give a feeling of nostalgia with the location backdrops. fantastically written as well, this really is one of the most perfect films made (in my opinion, at least).