The dramatic event that starts the story involves two best friends and fellow police detectives, Karl (John Savage) and Ian (Ted Danson). Two criminals, Jimmy and Greg, kidnap the detectives and take them to an onion field near Bakersfield. This encounter results in Greg shooting Ian dead, and Karl manages to get away. Jimmy and Greg are arrested, convicted of murder and are placed on Death Row, awaiting their fate.
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Much of the film concerns itself with how Greg studies the legal system to delay their execution and constantly tie up proceedings with appeals for years to come. These efforts result in delaying long enough for the sentence to be reduced to life imprisonment following California's decision to stop capital punishment. The film also focuses on the emotional trauma that Karl endures. He feels guilty that he survived, and others wonder if he acted correctly on the night in question. The debate about whether a cop should ever hand over his gun in these kinds of situations is explored in detail in the book.
Best part of story, including ending:
I like how one single event impacts on those involved and the psychological effects are shown
Opinion about the main character:
I like his integrity