Actor Val Kilmer is known for his roles in iconic films such as Batman Forever and The Doors, which made him a household name. Kilmer’s career saw exponential heights during the late 80s and early 90s with his popularity bolstered by his performance as Iceman, a rival to Tom Cruise’s Maverick, in 1986’s Top Gun.
During an interview, Kilmer opened up about his lengthy career and reflected on some of his most career-defining roles. At the time, Kilmer credited one iconic crime-drama film with putting him above the rest of his peers in Hollywood over Top Gun. Here is why Val Kilmer feels 1995’s Heat was one of the most important films in his career.
Val Kilmer Credits Heat With Giving Him an Edge Over His Hollywood Peers
Val Kilmer rose to prominence with roles in comedy films such as 1984’s Top Secret! and 1985’s Real Genius. Kilmer gained further fame with his role as Iceman, opposite Tom Cruise in 1986’s Top Gun. His performance as Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors also earned Kilmer critical acclaim.
Despite featuring in several iconic movies, Kilmer revealed during a Reddit AMA session that director Michael Mann‘s 1995 crime-drama film Heat was the most priceless experience of his career.
While answering a fan question about his role in the Heat, Kilmer stated:
Well imagine being able to say, “Al and Bob” for the rest of your life. Not many people can do that.
Kilmer’s comment references the opportunity to work with legendary actors Al Pacino and Robert De Niro in the film. The Batman Forever actor implied that Heat made him friends with the two stars, giving him an edge over some of his peers.
I am in one of the greatest cops and robbers films in film history, has to be in the top 20. I am on the poster for goodness sake. What an honor! Priceless experience.
Kilmer made the above statement highlighting how iconic Heat has become in the years since its release. The film was a major critical and commercial success grossing $187.4 million at the box office. It also had a large impact on the crime and cop-drama genre making it one of the most influential films of all time.
Val Kilmer Talks Filming the Iconic Gunfight During the Climax of Heat
During the same AMA session, one fan also asked Kilmer about the iconic gunfight scene that takes place during the climax of Heat. The gunfight sees Pacino and De Niro’s characters facing off against each other at an airport in what is arguably the most elaborate and realistic action sequence of the time to be set in an urban location.
Shot only on weekends. sched was for 11 days. It took 15. We were all happy as hell but Michael Mann never wanted it to end so he kept filming inserts while we sweat thru our suits in the LA HEAT.
Kilmer made the above statement highlighting the challenges of filming the complicated action sequence.
The actor noted how the schedule went on longer than expected because of director Michael Mann’s attention to detail. However, Kilmer also joked that the sequence, filmed in the harsh heat of Los Angeles justified the film’s title. Mann has confirmed that a sequel to Heat is in development with Adam Driver reportedly eyed to play a younger version of De Niro’s Neil McCauley.
Heat is available to stream on Plex.
