I know I an probably the last person to finally see the Negotiator but I have a question. I found the movie very suspenceful but am I the only one who felt the plot had holes big enough to land a jet in? A) the first thing they would have checked was the phone records on the pagers. B) As soon as hostage takers start shooting hostages they attack, nothing else to lose. C) How did those cops know to be there at the murder, who called it in and when?

It was a thrill ride to be sure. Maybe I shouldn't expect so much accuracy. Look at Double Jeopardy. The whole premise is wrong but still keeps kicking butt at the box office.

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I think The Negotiator is just one of those movies where you just sit back and enjoy the ride. It's got a so-so beginning and end, but the entire middle part rules because of the suspense and performances. As far as being a popcorn movie, it holds a little more credibility than say, Mercury Rising or Double Jeopardy.

Anyway, I'm not sure about part C of your question, Jim. I'd have to check again, but my guess is, at least one of the conspirators knew when the murder would take place and call it in anonymously. This could have simply been taken out or just not written in because it would be a minor clarification in my eyes.