Review

After brilliantly dissecting TV journalisn in Broadcast News, writer-director Brooks turns his eye on the movie industry with less-than-satisfying results. Nolte stars as a talented but unemployed actor who unexpectedly gains custody of his bratty six-year-old daughter. While trying to pursue both a coveted film role and a pretty, budding producer (Richardson), he must also get to know his estranged child. When Brooks zeroes in on the movie-making process, the film is funny and diverting; however, the scenes concerning the reunion of father and daughter are maudlin at best. Originally intended as a musical, the film was edited after disappointing previews -- ironic after Brooks nearly lampoons the process in his story.