A movie dealing with treachery in the Secret Service obviously has the potential to be a crackerjack thriller. Unfortunately, The Sentinel isn't up to the task; George Nolfi's script (based on a Gerald Petievich novel) is riddled with implausible twists and plot holes. It's also an easy bet that many viewers will guess the mystery villain before that person is revealed. Clark Johnson's sleek yet impersonal direction keeps the story on its feet but lacks the verve or intensity to gloss over the story's flaws. Thankfully, The Sentinel does have an ace up its sleeve in the form of a very good cast: Michael Douglas fills the shoes of the story's beleaguered hero with ease, Kiefer Sutherland makes an excellent sparring partner for him, and Kim Basinger is sympathetic and appealing as Douglas' conflicted lady love. Ultimately, The Sentinel is too gimmicky and underdeveloped to hold up to a scrutiny, but it's a passable time-waster for anyone in an undemanding mood.