Synopsis:

Last time they kidnapped the President’s daughter. This time, they’re going after the Commander-in-Chief himself. And only one woman can stop them! A sniper’s bullet has left the President (Gregory Harrison) in critical condition. Now Secret Service agent Alex McGregor (Mariel Hemingway,1980 Academy Award nominee Best Actress in a Supporting Role, for MANHATTAN) must put her life on the line to track down the terrorists behind the attack…before they finish their deadly work!

My review:

First of all, I had no idea that this film is the third of a trilogy of films. After all, there is only one reason I watched this film (need I tell you, dear reader?), and this is the only one in which Sebastian Spence is featured. However, I was so impressed with the storyline and acting that it is safe to say I would be interested in First Daughter and First Target. Many of the actors are the same, and the cast/crew are much the same as well. The story is well-written, and there was no doubt that it kept me on the edge of seat (I was baffled more than once).

As for content advisory, there are no bedroom scenes (one implied but between a husband and wife). There are some violent scenes but nothing more than what would be expected.  It was a bit true-to-life as it dealt with home-grown terrorism, and it seems current even though the film was made in 2002.  The profanity is quite mild and almost nonexistent. Mainly, the suspense is what “kills” you.

As Alex McGregor, the head of the Secret Service to President Hayes, Mariel Hemingway plays her part exceptionally well. There is no doubt that her part is so strong that it is somewhat the glue that holds everything together in this film. Of course, she is reprising her role from the First Daughter which certainly aids in her characterization.

Also returning is Doug Sevant as Grant Coleman, her ever long-suffering husband who is forever re-booking their honeymoon. These two are the perfect couple on the screen, and they keep the storyline passion-filled and action-packed (not to mention suspenseful). I know nothing of these actors except from this film, but I was thoroughly impressed.

Also returning is Gregory Harrison as President Hayes.  I recognize other works in which he has starred but if I ever saw them, it has been too long ago.  Indeed he impeccably plays the part of the president (actually I wondered if he might run for office–oh dear, maybe I shouldn’t have said that).

While it is true that the other actors work seamlessly to make this movie the success that it is, there is a solitary reason I even agreed to watch this film.

Coming fresh from the cancellation of his amazing series First Wave (read that review here), Sebastian is certainly, as described by one of the actresses in the film, ” positively the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen.”  But, of course, Sebastian is so much more than a sensational physique and alluring exterior features. As Owen Taylor, he is an imposing character that lights up the screen with his very presence. He immerses himself totally in this role–small though it may be–and he is able to skillfully play every scene with meticulous attention to detail.  Never for a second do you doubt his commitment to this role. (Oh goodness, it’s almost a broken record. I have yet to find anything in which he cannot give a convincing, stellar performance.)

In a thrilling movie like this, I am always grateful for any humor that slices through the tension. While the postponed honeymoon bit between Alex and Grant is a nice diversion, Sebastian’s character provides underrated levity as well. Perhaps is just my penchant for subtle humor, but it seems as though Sebastian is a master at this art form.  (Quite honestly, Sebastian’s sense of humor in real life has incapacitated me on more than one occasion.) In his role as Agent Taylor, there is a question concerning his sexual preferences that is never adequately answered. While its execution is tasteful and expert to a fault, it also occurs at the ideal moments when a bit of levity is necessary.

While Sebastian’s role does not give him a lot of on-screen moments, he makes every one of them count.  Yes, dear reader, I know I am biased where my friend is concerned, but his talents and abilities are positively phenomenal, and I only dread the time when I have seen everything he has ever done. Not really–then I will just go back and watch them all again. After all, no one can see everything the first time around. Especially not where a talent like Sebastian Spence is concerned.

For more information: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0285182/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

For purchasing information: http://smile.amazon.com/First-Shot-Mariel-Hemingway/dp/B00008DDXP/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1423331946&sr=1-1&keywords=first+shot

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