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The Substitute is a 1996 American action-thriller film directed by Robert Mandel and stars Tom Berenger as Jonathan Shale, a mercenary who takes on the identity of a substitute teacher in order to investigate a brutal gang that has taken over a high school in Miami, Florida. The film also features supporting roles from actors such as Diane Venora, Ernie Hudson, and William Forsythe.

The film begins with Shale on a mission in Cuba, where he witnesses the execution of a prisoner and decides to leave the mercenary life behind. Upon returning to Miami, Shale goes to visit his girlfriend, Jane Hetzko (played by Venora), who is a teacher at Columbus High School. During their visit, Shale becomes aware of the way the school is run by gangs who harass and intimidate the students and staff.

When Jane is attacked by the gang, Shale decides to take matters into his own hands by posing as a substitute teacher at the school, hoping to identify and take down the leader of the gang, Juan Lacas (played by Forsythe). Under the guise of substitute teacher, he begins to bond with several students, including a troubled young man named Joey Six (played by Glenn Plummer) who struggles with drug addiction.

As Shale delves deeper into the school's inner workings, he discovers that the gang has a far-reaching network that extends beyond just the school. With the help of his former mercenary colleagues, including his friend and fellow mercenary, Wolf (played by Hudson), Shale prepares to take on Lacas and his gang in a violent confrontation.

The film takes the viewer through a series of action-packed events, including shootouts and fistfights among the students, teachers and the gang members, culminating in a climactic confrontation between Shale and Lacas in the school gym.

The Substitute was praised for its sharp script, thrilling plot and exciting action sequences, as well as the performances of its ensemble cast. Reviewers praised Berenger's portrayal of Shale as a tough, resourceful and compassionate character, who was a refreshing departure from the typical action hero stereotype. The film was also commended for its effective portrayal of gang violence and for highlighting the challenges faced by teachers in underfunded and neglected school systems.

While the film was a commercial success, grossing over $14 million at the box office, it was criticized by some for its depiction of violence in schools, as well as for some of its inaccurate portrayals of Hispanic culture. However, it remains a cult classic among action fans and continues to be regarded as one of Berenger's best performances. The film also spawned several sequels, albeit with different cast and crew members, but none achieved the same level of critical or commercial success as the original.