The Package

19891h 48m Directed by Andrew Davis
6.1
(250 votes)
CrimeThrillerAction

Overview

Experienced Green Beret sergeant Johnny Gallagher is escorting a prisoner, Airborne Ranger Thomas Boyette, back to the US, but Boyette escapes and Gallagher must risk life and limb to catch him.

The Package

A Tense yet Predictable Pursuit: Unpacking the Thrills of "The Package"

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadDec 12, 2025
The Package, a 1989 thriller directed by Andrew Davis, is a film that promises a high-stakes game of cat and mouse between a seasoned Green Beret sergeant and a cunning Airborne Ranger prisoner. The movie delivers on its promise of action and suspense, with a gripping premise that sets the stage for a tense and unpredictable pursuit. Johnny Gallagher, played by Gene Hackman, is a grizzled and experienced sergeant tasked with escorting the prisoner, Thomas Boyette, played by Tommy Lee Jones, back to the United States. However, when Boyette escapes, Gallagher must use all his skills and resources to track him down and prevent a potential catastrophe.

As the story unfolds, the film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense action sequences and quieter moments of character development. The chemistry between Hackman and Jones is undeniable, and their characters' complex and often antagonistic relationship adds depth to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Joanna Cassidy and John Heard, also delivers solid performances that enhance the overall tension and suspense. The film's themes of duty, loyalty, and redemption are well-explored, and the script raises interesting questions about the nature of justice and the consequences of one's actions. However, the plot is not without its predictable moments, and some viewers may find the twists and turns of the story a bit too familiar.

Despite its predictability, "The Package" remains a engaging and entertaining thriller that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. The film's execution is solid, with crisp editing and a haunting score that adds to the overall sense of tension. The action sequences are well-choreographed and intense, with a memorable showdown between Gallagher and Boyette that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Overall, while "The Package" may not be a particularly original or groundbreaking film, it is a well-crafted and suspenseful thriller that is worth watching for its strong performances, tense action sequences, and thought-provoking themes. With its moderate runtime and engaging storyline, "The Package" is a great choice for viewers looking for a classic action thriller that will keep them entertained from start to finish.

CAST

Gene Hackman
Gene Hackman
Sgt. Johnny Gallagher
Joanna Cassidy
Joanna Cassidy
Eileen Gallagher
Tommy Lee Jones
Tommy Lee Jones
Thomas Boyette
John Heard
John Heard
Col. Glen Whitacre
Dennis Franz
Dennis Franz
Lt. Milan Delich
Pam Grier
Pam Grier
Ruth Butler
Ron Dean
Ron Dean
Karl Richards
Nathan Davis
Nathan Davis
Soviet Press Secretary
Chelcie Ross
Chelcie Ross
Gen. Hopkins
Joe Greco
Joe Greco
Gen. Carlson

Trailer

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