Synopsis

At New York's busy TRACON facility, cocky air traffic controller Nick Falzone enjoys his reputation as the best in the room. His confidence is shaken when Russell Bell, a calm and unconventional newcomer, proves equally talented under pressure. Their professional rivalry spills into their marriages and personal lives, forcing both men to confront the pride, insecurity, and reckless behavior behind their competitive personas.

Factoids & Trivia

• The screenplay was adapted from Darcy Frey's New York Times Magazine article "Something's Got to Give," which examined the demanding world of air traffic controllers.

• The production filmed extensively in Toronto and Mississauga, Ontario, including locations at Pearson International Airport. Additional filming took place in New Jersey, California, and Minnesota.

• John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton attended air traffic-control training in Toronto as part of their preparation. The specialized dialogue was so dense that some lines were reportedly taped near the radar screens as visual prompts.

• The film was released in the United States on April 23, 1999. Made on an estimated $33 million budget, it earned about $8.4 million domestically and became a box-office disappointment.

• Angelina Jolie and Billy Bob Thornton met during production. They later became romantically involved and were married for several years.