The cast of Michael Mann’s Heat sequel is starting to come together, and for the most part the many rumors have been true. TheWrap reports that Christian Bale and Leonardo DiCaprio are locked in, while some other outlets say they are in final negotiations. Recasting a stone-cold classic such as Heat was never going to be easy, but if you’re going to do it, this is the way.
According to the report, Bale will play Vincent Hanna, the dogged LAPD detective originally played by Al Pacino. DiCaprio is confirmed to play Chris Shiherlis, the thief originally played by Val Kilmer in the 1995 classic.
Adam Driver has long been eyed for a role, and he’s reportedly being sought to play the villain, Wardell. Adolescence star Stephen Graham has also been linked, and he’s said to be in talks for Neil McCauley, the role originated by Robert De Niro. Previously confirmed for a role is Jason Clarke, although his character remains unclear. The search is on for an actress to play Sharlene, played by Ashley Judd originally.
Heat 2 is based on Mann and Meg Gardiner’s novel, taking place across two time periods, acting as a prequel and sequel to the 1995 film with young versions of the characters played by Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, and Val Kilmer. In the first period, Chris Shiherlis tries to escape the LAPD after the robbery gone wrong, making his way to Southern Asia. The other time period is in 1988 Chicago, as McCauley and Shiherlis and their crew nearly encounter Detective Hannah as he pursues a violent gang of home invaders.
Lots of big roles yet to be filled. If you recall, the film was originally at Warner Bros., but it was dumped due to Mann’s request for a $200M budget. Amazon MGM Studios picked it up and now the cost is around $170M, minus California incentives. Reportedly, many actors will be working for less than their going rate. I doubt that includes DiCaprio.
Filming on Heat 2 should begin in November.
