Allison Westlin, a Los Angeles-based immigration lawyer and single mother, investigates a murder with the help of private detective Mario Sparks and INS officer Dan McIvers. As the investigation continues and Westlin uncovers a human-smuggling ring, Westlin's nanny Maria jeopardizes her life to protect Westlin and her daughter.
Acting
Elizabeth Peña elevates every scene she's in
Direction
Ken Kwapis keeps it watchable despite budget limits
Director
Ken Kwapis
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was a CBS television movie that somehow got theatrical release overseas. Ken Kwapis later directed The Office and Parks and Rec—wild career trajectory.
Made during peak INS anxiety in California, it accidentally documents 90s immigration rhetoric that feels weirdly contemporary. Peña reportedly took the role specifically for the nuanced Latina representation.
US
