'Hostages' review: Thrill ride

Meanwhile, their world is ruled by "Murphy's law" "We have thought of everything," McDermott's heavy tells the terrified family, almost as if he's trying to convince himself. In fact, they haven't thought of everything, which adds to the intrigue and story as well. There are moments here when viewers will say, "Hold on a minute, cowboy -- that could never ever happen" -- and there certainly are reality- challenged moments in "Homeland," too. But that's hardly the point or pleasure of shows like this. The roller- coaster ride is what counts, and "Hostages" promises a decent one. Bruckheimer does succumb to his most basic instincts -- which, for viewers, is (as usual) good and bad. The tension never sags. The synth soundtrack never stops thumping. But you'll also wish the show would slow down to take stock of the details, and especially the characters, who only briefly emerge from the headlong rush. Naughton, Collette and McDermott are superb -- and "character," after all, is what they do best.

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