The Substitute (2022)
Movie111minsRated M
Where to watch The Substitute in Australia
Stream now on NetflixNetflix
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Streaming availability data from JustWatch.
About The Substitute
Lucio, a prestigious university professor, takes the position of substitute teacher at a high school in the suburbs of Buenos Aires, where he grew up. Through tales, novels and poetry, he tries to distract his class from the harsh reality of their everyday lives. But soon, he must step out of his professional duties when Dilan, one of his students, is threatened by a local drug kingpin.
- Year
- 2022
- Runtime
- 111mins
- Director
- Diego Lerman
- Top cast
- Juan Minujín, Bárbara Lennie, Alfredo Castro, Rita Cortese, María Merlino
The Substitute trailer
Play video: The Substitute trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
The Substitute, directed by Diego Lerman, presents a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between education and social challenges. Lucio, played with nuance and depth, embodies the struggle of a dedicated teacher trying to inspire his students amidst the harsh realities of their lives. The film's narrative arc is compelling, moving from light-hearted classroom moments to tense confrontations with the local drug kingpin threatening one of his students. Lerman's direction is both sensitive and incisive, allowing the audience to feel the weight of the circumstances surrounding the characters. The cinematography captures the gritty backdrop of Buenos Aires effectively, enhancing the emotional core of the story. Overall, The Substitute is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of education, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in socially relevant cinema.
Editor Team
★★★★★3.5/5
Watching The Substitute feels like taking a deep breath in a world that often forgets the struggles of its youth. Lucio, the protagonist, is a character many can root for; his passion for literature shines through as he attempts to uplift his class. However, the film is not without its darker themes, as it delves into the dangers lurking in the streets of Buenos Aires. While the storytelling can sometimes feel heavy-handed, the emotional moments resonate, particularly the relationship between Lucio and his students. The film balances moments of levity with sobering realities, but at times, it feels like it could have pushed further into the depths of its themes. Despite this, it's a film worth seeing, especially for those who appreciate narratives that challenge the status quo.
How viewers describe this
- inspiring
- poignant
- tense
- thoughtful
- engaging
- socially relevant
- heartfelt
- emotional
- powerful
- nuanced
- critical
- impactful
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
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| 06 | 13 | ||
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| 10 | 19 |
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Got a question about The Substitute?
Is The Substitute worth watching?
Yes, The Substitute is worth watching for its compelling narrative that addresses social issues through the lens of education. The film combines drama with moments of inspiration and tension, making it an engaging watch.
What is The Substitute really about?
The Substitute follows Lucio, a university professor who takes a position as a substitute teacher in a high school in Buenos Aires. He attempts to uplift his students through literature while confronting the harsh realities they face, particularly when one student, Dilan, is threatened by a drug kingpin.
Is The Substitute suitable for children?
The Substitute is generally not suitable for children due to its mature themes, including drug violence and social issues. Parental discretion is advised.
Where can I watch The Substitute in Australia?
In Australia, you can watch The Substitute on various streaming platforms. It is advisable to check local listings for availability on services like Google Play, Apple TV, or subscription services.
What happens at the end of The Substitute? (Spoilers)
At the end of The Substitute, Lucio takes a bold stand against the threats posed to his student Dilan. This climax not only showcases his dedication to his students but also reflects the broader societal issues at play, leaving viewers with a powerful message about courage and the impact of education.
Is there a sequel to The Substitute?
As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel to The Substitute. The film stands alone in its narrative, but its themes resonate deeply, leaving room for potential discussions about further stories.
What films are similar to The Substitute?
Films similar to The Substitute include Dead Poets Society, Freedom Writers, and Dangerous Minds. These films also explore the transformative power of education and the challenges faced by teachers in difficult environments.
Is The Substitute scary?
While The Substitute is not a horror film, it does contain tense moments related to violence and threats, which may create a sense of unease. However, it primarily focuses on drama and social issues rather than fear.
What is the critical reception of The Substitute?
The Substitute has received generally positive reviews from critics, praising its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances, particularly from the lead actor. It has been noted for its poignant exploration of social issues within the educational system.