Michael Mann, born in Chicago on February 5, 1943, is an American film director, screenwriter, and producer. Recognized for his distinctive visual style and in-depth psychological exploration of his characters, Mann has explored genres such as neo-noir and crime drama, becoming one of their foremost exponents. His career took off after producing the successful television series "Miami Vice." His most celebrated films include "Thief" (1981), "The Last of the Mohicans" (1992), and the cult classic "Heat" (1995), known for featuring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro on screen together for the first time. He subsequently directed "The Insider" (1999), which earned him several Oscar nominations, and "Collateral" (2004), in which he pioneered the use of high-definition digital cinematography. Throughout his career, he has received four Academy Award nominations—for directing, screenwriting, and producing—in addition to numerous other international awards, solidifying his reputation as a meticulous and influential auteur in contemporary cinema.