Frustrated in his attempts to break the case of missing union leader, an ambitious Federal prosecutor (Bob Balaban in a truly terrible, one dimensional performance) intentionally leaks misinformation to a reporter (Sally Field) who prints the story. This misinformation implicates an innocent man (Paul Newman) who the prosecutor wants to squeeze for information. This taut and well written screenplay by Kurt Luedtke, under Sydney Pollack's assured direction, is a clever examination of (un)ethical newspaper and government practices. Perhaps too clever because as entertaining as its "turn the tables" plot is, it's not very convincing. Its supporting characters seem like devices who function as pawns for the film's King and Queen, Newman and Field. There is one breakout performance that cuts through all the contrivances though. Melinda Dillon (in a justifiably Oscar nominated performance) as a fragile, chain smoking, anxiety ridden pal of Newman's who's responsible for the film's most wrenching moments. There's a fine score by Dave Grusin. With Josef Sommer, Luther Adler, Barry Primus, Don Hood and Wilford Brimley in a shameless performance as if he knew his one scene was his only chance to make an impression.
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