If there was ever a filmmaker who constantly pursued the truth and authenticity of people and the worlds they live in, it's Michael Mann. I don't think there is another artist who is as meticulous about the details that make the story and it's characters as real as possible. Whether it is a historical epic like "Last of the Mohicans" or his masterpiece "Heat" the details are always right on the money. This comes from doing diligent research and also hiring the very best in technical advisers. Weapons manipulation has always been a hallmark of all of Michael Mann's films going back to Thief's James Caan and his slicing the pie with his 1911 to Miami Vice's Don Johnson taking out the trash with his Bren Ten. The epic battle between Deniro and Pacino at the end of Heat was a great example of experienced guys using tactics and guile to defeat each other. Most recently, Tom Cruise in Collateral, the way he handled those guys in the alley, worth the price of admission alone. Heck, even Johnny Depp got into the mix with 1911's and Tommy guns in Public Enemies. I heard that Michael Mann was returning to TV to do a show about horse racing but I hope he returns to the world of crime real soon. Make sure you check out the above films if you haven't seen them. Even if you have, check them out again and keep an eye out for those little details that elevate his films above the rest.
Awesome. Love the Collateral scene you mention.
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