The film follows the story of Jonathan Shale (played by Tom Berenger), a mercenary and former Marine who takes on a dangerous undercover mission after his girlfriend Jane Hetzko (played by Diane Venora), a high school teacher, is brutally attacked by a group of students involved in a drug ring led by Juan Lacas (played by Marc Anthony).
To seek justice for Jane and put an end to the drug operation at the troubled Miami high school where she teaches, Shale assumes the identity of substitute teacher James Smith. Under his new guise, Shale quickly realizes that the school is plagued by violence, drugs, and corruption, with students and faculty alike living in fear of the criminal elements ruling the campus.
With the help of a few sympathetic students, including Shale’s former protege Joey Six (played by William Forsythe), and fellow teacher Miss Madison (played by Ernie Hudson), Shale begins to uncover the extent of the drug trafficking network operating within the school’s walls. He employs his military training and combat skills to take down the criminals one by one, teaching the students valuable lessons about courage, integrity, and standing up for what’s right along the way.
As Shale’s investigation progresses, he faces increasingly dangerous threats from Lacas and his henchmen, who will stop at nothing to protect their illicit enterprise. In a climactic showdown, Shale confronts Lacas and his gang in a violent and intense battle, determined to bring them to justice and restore peace to the school.
In the end, Shale emerges victorious, defeating Lacas and dismantling the drug ring once and for all. With the criminals behind bars and the school safe from harm, Shale bids farewell to his students and returns to his life as a mercenary, leaving behind a legacy of courage and resilience.
“The Substitute” is praised for its thrilling action sequences, suspenseful plot, and strong performances, particularly from Tom Berenger in the lead role. It explores themes of justice, redemption, and the importance of taking a stand against injustice, making it a compelling and entertaining action thriller.