And since the director happens to be standing with a tour group of school children, Sam finds himself almost inadvertently holding hostages. But Max, too, is in the museum, and he realizes he has the exclusive opportunity to cover the story from the inside. Max starts befriending and advising Sam, in small ways, pushing him into actions that'll make the story even better. The high-powered situation intensifies when the story goes national, marked by Max's former rival at the network, anchor Kevin Hollander. He is played by the perfectly cast Alan Alda.
Mad City is conventional and predictable.
Hoffman and most of the supporting players, though, create intriguing, full-blooded characters. Hoffman, in particular, aptly displays his character's childish, self-centered ambition, along with his undeniable polish as a TV newsman. Yet, he matures impressively as the situation becomes more entangled. Less successful is Travolta, saddled with a more challenging role. It's a tough puzzle, and Travolta doesn't quite work it out.