Flashpoint is the first feature film by William Tannen, veteran TV commercial director, and his inexperience working with actors and plot shows.

"Flashpoint" is such a good thriller for so much of its length that it's kind of a betrayal when the ending falls apart.

Mr. Tannen's strength is his ability to grab his audience's interest quickly and to hold on to it, even by the most superficial means. Even when the movie doesn't entirely make sense, it manages to be effective.

Flashpoint is still an entertaining, competent thriller that warrants rediscovery for committed performances from all the key players.