The Substitute

R

1996

1 hr. 54 min.

Action

List

42%

26 Reviews

Tomatometer

41%

10,000+ Ratings

Audience Score

Inner-city Miami schoolteacher Jane Hetzko (Diane Venora) gets her knee broken when she stands up to the school's gang leader, Juan Lacas (Marc Anthony). Her boyfriend, mercenary combat specialist Jonathan Shale (Tom Berenger), goes undercover as a substitute teacher to take down the punk, but soon discovers that Lacas is merely an underling for the real criminal mastermind. Assembling the team from his last jungle raid, led by his right-hand man, Joey Six (Raymond Cruz), Shale declares war.

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Jeremy D

I liked watching this movie, but since I really like the genre, that's not really a suprise. The movie does nothing groundbreaking to say the least but I liked how grounded it was despite some questionmarks in judgement. Though seeing how the "A-Team" fought in the finale, it's no suprise the raid in Cuba didn't go well ...

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

08/18/23

Full Review

zachary w

I like this old school movie, so why not give it a great rating! Like a mixture of Rambo and Roadhouse in one movie lol.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

07/29/23

Full Review

Jason A

Thought this was a good movie. If more people would take care of there street we wouldn't have has much trouble.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

07/22/23

Full Review

Alain M

"The Substitute" is a captivating thriller that showcases the extraordinary talents of veteran actor Tom Berenger. Released in [year], the film offers a refreshing take on the often-explored theme of an undercover teacher in a troubled school, injecting it with an edge of suspense and an engaging storyline. One of the standout aspects of "The Substitute" is undoubtedly Tom Berenger's exceptional portrayal of Jonathan Shale, a former mercenary who assumes the role of a substitute teacher to uncover a dangerous drug ring operating within the school. Berenger brings a commanding presence to the screen, effortlessly blending charisma with an aura of rugged determination. His nuanced performance draws viewers into the character's internal conflicts and unwavering commitment to justice. The film's plot unfolds at a brisk pace, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The director skillfully balances the action sequences with moments of tension and character development, ensuring that the narrative remains engaging throughout. As Shale's investigation delves deeper, the tension escalates, leading to explosive confrontations and unexpected twists that will leave viewers guessing until the final moments. In addition to Berenger's powerful performance, the supporting cast delivers commendable performances, further enhancing the film's overall quality. Notable performances from Marc Anthony, Ernie Hudson, and Diane Venora contribute depth and complexity to the story, adding layers to the characters' motivations and relationships. "The Substitute" succeeds in capturing the grim realities of a troubled educational institution, shedding light on important societal issues while maintaining its thrilling momentum. It intelligently explores themes of corruption, violence, and the struggle for power, prompting viewers to reflect on the challenges faced by both students and educators in such environments. Furthermore, the film's technical aspects, including its cinematography and score, contribute to the immersive experience. The cinematography expertly captures the gritty atmosphere of the school, while the well-chosen soundtrack complements the tension-filled sequences, heightening the emotional impact of the film. If you're a fan of action-packed thrillers with a thought-provoking twist, "The Substitute" is a must-watch. Tom Berenger's remarkable performance, the gripping storyline, and the film's exploration of societal issues make it a standout entry in the genre. Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-fueled journey that combines heart-pounding action with a deeper examination of the human condition.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

05/14/23

Full Review

Steve D

Takes itself a bit too seriously but it works.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

02/15/23

Full Review

Enid G

This movie has almost 90% on liked by audience (these are millions and millions of people) I don't know why it has a low rating in rotten tomatoes because I enjoy seeing this movie!! It has action, is in a Miami high school so the scenery is wonderful, a Merc is cleaning up a dirty school run by gangs and a crooked principal.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/13/21

Full Review

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Robert Mandel

Director

Tom Berenger

Jonathan Shale

Ernie Hudson

Principal Claude Rolle

Diane Venora

Jane Hetzko

Marc Anthony

Juan Lacas

Glenn Plummer

Mr. Darrell Sherman

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36%

55%

Sniper

53%

48%

Original Gangstas

8%

44%

Bulletproof

17%

27%

Metro

0%

28%

The Substitute 2: School's Out

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Susan Stark

Detroit News

Rated: 1/4

Mar 13, 2002

Full Review

Kevin Thomas

Los Angeles Times

There's a sense of shrewd observation throughout The Substitute that makes it come alive and seem quite a few cuts above such usual genre fare.

Feb 13, 2001

Full Review

Joey O'Bryan

Austin Chronicle

Rated: 0/5

Jan 1, 2000

Full Review

David Nusair

Reel Film Reviews

...an appealingly larger-than-life premise that's employed to watchable yet consistently (and disappointingly) hit-and-miss effect...

Rated: 2.5/4

Jan 31, 2021

Full Review

Justin Brown

Medium Popcorn

This movie was a mess. Tom Berenger was atrocious.

Rated: 1/5

Jan 14, 2021

Full Review

Brandon Collins

Medium Popcorn

This was really bad. It was over the top and completely insane.

Rated: 1/5

Jan 14, 2021

Full Review

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Synopsis

Inner-city Miami schoolteacher Jane Hetzko (Diane Venora) gets her knee broken when she stands up to the school's gang leader, Juan Lacas (Marc Anthony). Her boyfriend, mercenary combat specialist Jonathan Shale (Tom Berenger), goes undercover as a substitute teacher to take down the punk, but soon discovers that Lacas is merely an underling for the real criminal mastermind. Assembling the team from his last jungle raid, led by his right-hand man, Joey Six (Raymond Cruz), Shale declares war.

Director: Robert Mandel
Screenwriter: Roy Frumkes, Rocco Simonelli, Alan Ormsby
Production Co: Live Entertainment, Lionsgate, Mediaworks
Rating: R
Genre: Action
Original Language: English
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 1, 2007
Box Office (Gross USA): $14.8M
Sound Mix: Stereo, Surround

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