Police chief Xavier Quinn investigates the gruesome murder of Donald Pater, one of the wealthiest residents on a Caribbean island. He was found decapitated in his Jacuzzi. Although the local political establishment, especially crooked Governor Chalk, insists that small-time thief Maubee is responsible, Xavier has his doubts. This view is complicated by the police chief's personal history with Maubee: The men have been friends since childhood.

• Star Partners II Ltd.
• A&M Films
• Denzel Washington
• James Fox
• Mimi Rogers
• M. Emmet Walsh
• Sheryl Lee Ralph
• Art Evans
• Esther Rolle
• Norman Beaton