Action and violence highlight this thriller. Jack Lerolland (Christopher Lambert) and his family are traveling across the country. When a carload of troublemakers nearly run down Jack's nephew, events escalate into violence. The boy's father recognizes the ringleader (Craig Sheffer) at a truck stop and challenges him. A violent game of chicken ensues and the father is killed. The gang flees after beating Jack and leaving him for dead, then kidnapping his family. Against overwhelming odds, Jack pursues them across the desert. As tensions rise, the gang begins to fight among themselves. Shocking secrets are revealed in a deadly chase down Hell's highway.

Cast in alphabetical order.

• Christopher Lambert ......Jack
• Craig Sheffer ......Cliff
• Josh Brolin......Tom
• David Arquette...Bobby
• Michelle Forbes...Helen
• Joseph Gordon Levitt...Rich
• Michael Greene...Sheriff Hodes
• Alexondra Lee...Ashley
• Christopher McDonald...Glen