15. The Substitute (El suplente); movie review

 

THE SUBSTITUTE (EL SUPLENTE)

Cert 15

112 mins

BBFC advice: Contains strong language

I don't recall my supply teachers becoming as caring about school classes as Juan Minujín's Lucio in The Substitute.

Indeed, they didn't last longer than a term.

And even a supportive colleague admits she didn't think the rather academic literature teacher "would last a day" at their tough Buenos Aires senior school.

But she was unaware of his steel streak, inherited from his father (Alfredo Castro).

Things don't start out well with the kids in his class showing no interest in a subject which they believe has no relevance.

But, while this is no Dead Poet's Society, he does show them how it does.

Much of the action in The Substitute drifts outside of the classroom into the back streets of the most deprived suburbs of Argentina's capital.

Crime lords are in charge and, from an early age, young people carry out their drug trade.

Lucio becomes so invested in his students that he tries to prevent them from being sucked into the spiral.

Meanwhile, he is struggling to convince his young daughter to study for an exam which will mean she will go to a much better school.

The key to The Substitute is the bonds that are created by the teacher with his students, members of staff, his family and the wider community.

Building up trust is never easy but director Diego Lerman has reflected with great effect the gradual inroads made by Lucio and the fine thread on which maintaining relationships hangs.

On occasions, it stretches credibility to believe that he can get so far so soon - nevertheless, I was hooked by a gritty drama and I found myself very much on his side.

Reasons to watch: Gritty drama

Reasons to avoid: Stretches reality

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 7.5/10

Did you know? At just under 98%, Argentina has one of the highest levels of literacy among all Latin American countries.

The final word. Diego Lerman: "Some see the abyss and the collapse of humanity on the near horizon. However, I am convinced that the key lies in education. That battle that is fought daily by teachers in the classroom, and outside of it. I find it utterly touching. And at the same time, a very under-appreciated, underrated task."

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