Heat 2 (2024)

“Heat 2” (2024): Everything We Know So Far

“Heat 2” is the highly anticipated follow-up to Michael Mann’s 1995 crime thriller Heat, which starred Al Pacino as LAPD detective Vincent Hanna and Robert De Niro as master thief Neil McCauley. The sequel, based on Mann’s 2022 novel Heat 2 (co-written with Meg Gardiner), serves as both a prequel and sequel to the original film, expanding on the lives of its main characters before and after the events of Heat.

Michael Mann Says 'Heat 2' Will Shoot In 2024 & Is A “Prequel & Sequel”

Storyline

The film is expected to follow the structure of the novel, which explores two key time periods:

  1. Prequel (1988-1989): The story dives into the early years of Neil McCauley, Chris Shiherlis, and their crew, detailing their rise in the criminal underworld. It also follows a young Vincent Hanna as he becomes deeply entrenched in his role as a detective, setting the stage for his later pursuit of McCauley in Heat.
  2. Sequel (Post-1995): The aftermath of the climactic events of Heat is explored, with Chris Shiherlis on the run after escaping the shootout and Hanna continuing his relentless pursuit of criminals. The narrative extends across various international locations, including Mexico and Southeast Asia, as Shiherlis aligns with new criminal organizations.

Cast and Production

Michael Mann, known for his meticulous approach to crime dramas, is returning as the director. While official casting has not been confirmed, Adam Driver is rumored to be in talks to play a younger Neil McCauley, originally portrayed by Robert De Niro. Austin Butler is speculated to take on the role of Chris Shiherlis, a part played by Val Kilmer in the original film. There have also been discussions about Al Pacino’s involvement, possibly in a different capacity.

Filming and Locations

Mann has stated that Heat 2 will be a large-scale film, potentially close to three hours long. Filming is expected to take place in multiple locations, including Chicago, Los Angeles, Paraguay, and parts of Mexico and Southeast Asia.

Release and Expectations

As of early 2025, production has yet to begin, with reports suggesting a late 2024 or early 2025 filming schedule. The release date remains unconfirmed. Given Mann’s reputation and the legacy of Heat, expectations are high for a film that delves deeper into the psychological and professional lives of its complex characters.

Fans of the original can look forward to a gripping continuation of one of the greatest crime films ever made.