Lesson Plan

This was just simply a good action movie. One that netflix added thats actually good. I quite enjoy the dubbed movies they put out especially if the action is there and the acting is good. Luckily they were and it was a pretty good film. Its all about this man who becomes a teacher after someone dies that was involved in drugs. He notices the students and even ends up teaching them how to fight as a way of sticking up for their selfes. The school is a bit of a problem one. But anyway theres quite a bit of good action with some fighting skills thrown in. The acting was alright and there was a good mix of intense parts and some romance. Overall an enjoyable movie.

Then it just became another 80's Karate Kid-type film we've all seen many times before - from the 80's and 90's. The fight scenes were too many and too boring, and the entire story had every cliche you can imagine. There were probably as many plot holes as there were fight scenes, and the entire story had nothing new to offer for this genre as it was entirely predictable. The romance scenes were cheesy and sappy as well. Plus it got tiresome glorifying the lead actor as some tough-guy - almost as if he wrote the story to make himself an action star, which was unconvincing from the start. The normally comfortable 101 min felt dragged out with all the cliched and predictable scenes, even though it had decent pacing. Perhaps in the hands of a better director and more convincing lead, I may have given it an extra point or two, but as was, not offering anything new to the genre, it's a very generous 6/10 from me - mostly because it was an international Polish and non-Hollywood film that was still watchable, one time.

Not only does the story move at a glacial pace, the action moves just as slow. Every move looks over-choreographed and lands so slowly it looks like it does no damage. Not only that but even when the main character's life is threatened, he rarely does any permanent damage to his opponents. He leaves random drunks with more bruises than those responsible for his friend's death. It completely breaks immersion.

Overall, the story itself isn't a bad one and the film could've been an entertaining if unmemorable action flick if some sort of action coach had been hired and a script editor hired to remove the cheesy, recycled lines from old kung-fu movies. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case and it instead ended up disappointingly average.

Lesson Plan" is a solid action film that delivers an enjoyable viewing experience with its straightforward yet engaging plot. The story centers on Damien, who steps in as a teacher after a friend dies under suspicious circumstances. As he takes on this new role, Damien finds himself entangled with gangs and drug dealers that have infiltrated the school. Determined to restore order and find out who is responsible for his friend's death, Damien takes matters into his own hands.

The film excels in its character development, making the audience root for Damien and his students as they band together to reclaim their school. The characters are well-crafted, and their struggles and growth throughout the movie add depth to the narrative. Damien's efforts to teach his students self-defense lead to numerous well-choreographed fight scenes that keep the action dynamic and exciting.

The plot is reminiscent of classics like "The Karate Kid" and "The Substitute," blending elements of martial arts and teacher-student camaraderie. This familiar formula works well, creating a sense of nostalgia while still feeling fresh. The gritty cinematography enhances the film's atmosphere, immersing viewers in the tough, high-stakes environment the characters navigate.

Overall, "Lesson Plan" is a well-executed action film that stands out with its compelling characters and thrilling fight sequences. It's a movie that knows its genre and delivers on its promise, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of action-packed dramas. Whether you're in it for the intense action, the heartfelt moments, or the satisfying narrative, "Lesson Plan" offers a bit of everything and is sure to entertain.

I enjoyed this. The main character, Damian, is believable and sympathetic, plus we feel sorry for him because his wife was murdered by some really serious bad guys. The baddies in this film are suitably loathsome, the love interest is cute and we are encouraged to root for the good guys from the word go. The high school setting is convincing, the locations are dark and threatening and everything generally goes the way we want. Not cinematic history but a good thriller with a different setting from most. I can see where the comparisons with Reacher come from but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Watchable and satisfying, once you've had a drink or two.