Two years have passed since the publication of the Heat 2 Novel, Michael Mann and Meg Gardiner’s prequel/sequel to her classic crime thriller. Since then, the concept of a film sequel to the 1995 film heat has become less of a fantasy and more of a reality for fans. Now, while I was with World of Reel after a screening of his MiamiVice Following the film’s release, Mann himself gave an encouraging update on both the adaptation’s progress and, most importantly, its epic scope.

“I’m working on the script seven days a week, and it’s big, or at least as big as the original, which was 2 hours and 50 minutes long… We’ll shoot it in Paraguay, and also in Mexicali, in Chicago and in LA, and then in Southeast Asia, probably in Bhutan.”

Those are some pretty concrete details about the highly anticipated crime thriller, and should be more than enough to give hope that the film will not only hit theaters before the end of 2025, but maybe even live up to the legacy of the original. In fact, Mann is hoping the film will hit the big screen in 2025 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the first film. Will it be as solid, action-packed, and moving as the original? That’s a pretty high bar to clear, but everything suggests it at least has a chance.

What do we know about Heat 2?

Published in August 2022, the book received critical acclaim and landed on the New York Times bestseller list. Heat 2 The novel follows the early days of Vincent Hanna (played by Al Pacino in the original film), Chris Shiherlis (Val Kilmer) and Neil MacCauley (Robert De Niro). The film will follow suit, as well as mimic Shiherlis’ escape and MacCauley’s pursuit after the events of the 1995 epic. Judging by the novel, Heat 2 is actually more Shiherlis’ story than anyone else’s, which raises the question of who will play him now that Kilmer can no longer do so.

At the moment, Austin Butler is the best choice. His star is rising quickly into the Hollywood stratosphere, and he has the looks and ability to play cold but passionate characters (as in The Bikers).

Another big rumor surrounding the crime thriller sequel is that Adam Driver will take on the role of young MacCauley, replacing De Niro. star Wars And Big city Star is likely attached to the project at this point, as he has entered into talks and has a relationship with Mann about their mixed collaboration, Ferrari. Further rumors say that the character Elisa, who plays an important role in MacCauley’s part of the story, will be played by Blond And John Wick presents: Ballerina Star Ana de Armas. And her casting would be perfect.