Heat (BFI Modern Classics)
by Nick James

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Book Summary Information

• ISBN13: 9780851709383
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
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Book Reviews of Heat (BFI Modern Classics)

Book Review: A comprehensive guide to Mann's Classic
Summary: 4 Stars

Maybe I'm wrong, but I would imagine that anyone who is interested in a book like this is already VERY familar with the scenes of the movie itself, so personally I would prefer more emphasis on the MAKING of the film in question, rather than what actual happens in it!

That minor criticism aside, this is an excellent account by Nick James (Editor of "Sight and Sound") of Michael Mann's masterpiece from 1996. Rich in content and depth, this is currently the only book available about "Heat" and is also one of the few books out there which covers the work of Michael Mann at all (there is a brief overview of his career in this book, but this is kept short in order to concentrate on the "main event" : HEAT)

Although on the small size, the book is generously illustrated with clean crisp colour and black and white DVD grabs of key scenes from the film, as well as some other related imagery throughout. I would have preferred a better picture for the front cover though, but that is of little importance! :)

Mr. James is clearly a big fan of the film, but tries hard not to get too carried away with his praise for it, which is a good thing in my opinion. In addition to some interesting and information points about numerous aspects of the film, he also includes a short appendix and Mann's original blueprint for "HEAT" - "L.A. Takedown". However, considering the unusual nature of this project [it was a TV movie made by Mann before HEAT but with the exact same story] I personally think that more coverage of Takedown would be justified. Never mind.

Overall then, this is an essential purchase for fans of the film or admirers of Mann's work as a film-maker and perfectionist!

Recommended.
John Mounsey.

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