Michael Mann's highly anticipated "Heat 2," the long-awaited sequel to his acclaimed 1995 crime drama starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, is finally making substantial progress towards production. The project has recently found a new home at Amazon MGM-owned United Artists, with producer Scott Stuber in final negotiations to secure the rights for the film. This move comes after the project was initially set up at Warner Bros., but disagreements over the proposed budget led the studio to allow the filmmakers to shop the film elsewhere. Amazon MGM has confirmed its intention to release "Heat 2" in theaters.

The film is based on the 2022 novel of the same name, co-written by Michael Mann and novelist Meg Gardiner, which became a New York Times Bestseller. "Heat 2" is unique in its narrative scope, serving as both a prequel and a sequel to the original "Heat." The story delves back in time to 1980s Chicago, exploring the early days of Neil McCauley's crew and LAPD detective Vincent Hanna's pursuit of the remorseless home invader Otis Wardell. Simultaneously, it examines the immediate aftermath of the original film's climactic 1995 Los Angeles shootout, detailing Chris Shiherlis's escape and his abandonment of his family, before fast-forwarding to the year 2000, where Hanna and Shiherlis's paths converge once more to confront the sadistic Wardell.

Despite the significant strides in securing studio backing, no cast deals are currently in place, although numerous actors, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Adam Driver, and Austin Butler, have been rumored for roles. Michael Mann is confirmed to produce the film alongside Jerry Bruckheimer, Scott Stuber, and Nick Nesbitt. Eric Roth and Shane Salerno will serve as executive producers. Mann has expressed his eagerness to begin filming, stating, "I look forward to possibly shooting it in 2026," as the production is currently in the midst of budgeting, scheduling, and casting processes.

The original "Heat," which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in December, was a significant box office success, grossing $187 million globally against a $60 million budget. Mann has often referred to "Heat" as one of his best directorial experiences, motivated by the challenge of telling authentic stories about complex individuals. After a hiatus following his 2015 film "Blackhat," Mann has been actively involved in recent projects, including executive producing the HBO series "Tokyo Vice" and directing its pilot, as well as directing the 2023 film "Ferrari." The development of "Heat 2" at United Artists signifies a new chapter for the beloved crime saga, promising an even more sprawling epic for fans.