A picturesquely-shot chase thriller that runs like a high-class TV movie.

A maniac has mercilessly killed a ransom victim after his demands have been met, and must be tracked down by a city-wise law enforcer (Sidney Poitier) and a mountain guide (Tom Berenger).

Meanwhile the killer, identity unknown, joins an adventure tour planning to seize its guide (Kirstie Alley) and force her to take him to Canada.

Packed with as much taut action as the plot will allow, but let down by silly situations, the film draws gasps and giggles in about equal number.

Poitier, looking scarcely older on his return to acting after 10 years away, gives a majestic performance as the obsessed FBI agent.

And the script does have a few much-appreciated amusing lines. 'Maybe we could give it some food,' mutters Poitier, as he and Berenger face a grizzly bear up in the mountains.

Berenger gives him a quick but withering glance. 'We 'are' the food,' he replies.