The love story and murder mystery rarely sit comfortably together in Peter Hyams's The Presidio. This remarkably gifted director (see Outland) can squeeze potential out of the most inconsequential narratives. However, numerous distractions cause the whodunit factor to recede here. By the end, you may have forgotten the homicide altogether.

The moment Patti Jean Lynch (Jenette Goldstein) enters the story, we know she's not long for this movie. Larry Ferguson's screenplay can be predictable that way. Some unspectacular showdowns and numerous false starts prolong this picture's groaning inadequacies.

Still, I cannot find any fault with Sean Connery as he carries the gold star recommendation. He's thoroughly convincing, while receiving a much better character arc than the film deserves. For the most classic moment, he beats up a bar room brawler using only his thumb. Skill indeed! Meanwhile, Jack Warden adds considerable interest as Connery's Vietnam buddy. On this occasion, they make good on their reputations.

Sadly, Mark Harmon and Meg Ryan struggle to maintain any gravity during their elongated love scene. Theirs has to be the most fizzling encounter since William Holden climbed into bed with Faye Dunaway during Network. Eek!

Arguably, The Presidio presents the most mundane chases in Connery's career. It's too bad every angle and cut appears so formalised that there's little room to convey danger or speed.

(Released by Paramount Home Video and rated "R" for adult situations/language and violence.)