Somewhat derivative of other films the “Blackboard Jungle” genre, but well acted by Michelle Pheiffer, who is believable as a teacher concerned about her “academy students” (barrio, ghetto, slum misfits). She has to fight the school administration, the parents, and even the kids themselves to spark an interest in education, but before the film ends, she has them reading Dylan Thomas, and liking it. The only part that really didn’t work for me was the karate scene. Pheiffer as ex-Marine? I don’t think so. The best scene is when she reveals her vulnerable side to a female student who is thinking of dropping out.