The film begins with Danny Roman (played by Samuel L. Jackson), a highly skilled hostage negotiator for the Chicago Police Department, being framed for the murder of his friend and fellow negotiator, Nate Roenick. As evidence mounts against him, including manipulated recordings and planted fingerprints, Danny becomes a fugitive, desperate to prove his innocence.
In a bold move, Danny takes several people hostage at gunpoint, including his own colleagues, in the Internal Affairs office. Among the hostages is Chris Sabian (played by Kevin Spacey), a talented negotiator from another precinct brought in to handle the situation.
Danny demands to speak with someone specific: Chris Sabian. He believes that Chris, being an outsider, is his best chance at getting to the truth and clearing his name. Chris reluctantly agrees to help, but he quickly realizes that there’s more to the situation than meets the eye.
As the tense standoff unfolds, Danny and Chris engage in a battle of wits with the police and the higher-ups who are determined to bring Danny down. They uncover evidence of corruption and cover-ups within the police department, as well as personal vendettas and hidden agendas.
Meanwhile, Danny’s former colleagues, led by his mentor and friend, Terence Niebaum (played by J.T. Walsh), are desperate to end the standoff by any means necessary, even if it means sacrificing Danny to protect their own secrets.
As the clock ticks down and the stakes escalate, Danny and Chris form an unlikely alliance to uncover the truth and bring the real perpetrators to justice. They navigate a web of deceit and betrayal, risking their lives to expose the corruption within the police department and clear Danny’s name.
In a pulse-pounding climax, Danny and Chris confront the true mastermind behind the conspiracy: Deputy Chief Travis (played by David Morse), who orchestrated the frame-up to cover up his own embezzlement scheme. With the help of the hostages, they bring Travis to justice and clear Danny’s name once and for all.
“The Negotiator” is praised for its intricate plot, suspenseful atmosphere, and powerhouse performances from Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish, keeping viewers guessing until the very end.