Class is officially back in session, and this time, the lesson plan involves a lot of firepower. The cult-classic action-thriller The Substitute is finally graduating to 4K Ultra HD for the very first time.
Lionsgate is bringing this gritty ’90s favorite to their prestigious Vestron Video Collectors Series in a limited-edition combo pack. Whether you’re a long-time fan of mercenary justice or a newcomer to the “undercover in high school” genre, this is the definitive way to own it.
The Mission: Justice in the Classroom
Tom Berenger stars as Shale, a battle-hardened Vietnam vet and mercenary who’s used to fighting wars in the jungle. But when he returns home, he finds a new kind of combat zone.
His girlfriend, Jane (Diane Venora), is a dedicated teacher who gets brutally attacked by a gang known as the “Kings of Destruction.” When the law fails to protect her, Shale decides to handle things his way: he goes undercover as a substitute teacher.
Shale quickly realizes the school is just a front for a massive cocaine highway. The operation is run by the ruthless gang leader Lacas (played by a young Marc Anthony) and—shockingly even more—the school’s own corrupt principal (Ernie Hudson). Shale has to call in his team of professional mercenaries to turn the high school hallways into a tactical battlefield. It’s “Teacher of the Year” meets The Expendables.
It features a “who’s who” of ’90s character actors, including Raymond Cruz, William Forsythe, Luis Guzmán, and Glenn Plummer.
Collector’s Edition Details
This isn’t just a standard re-release; it’s a high-end physical media event. The Collector’s Edition will be available on March 17, 2026, on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital (Vestron Video Collector’s Series).
Exclusive Special Features
Lionsgate has loaded this 4K set with brand-new extras that go behind the scenes of the film’s gritty production:
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Power Achieved Is Power Perceived: An exclusive sit-down with director Robert Mandel.
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Color Grade Is in Session: A look at the new 4K restoration process.
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Bullet Points: A fascinating storyboard-to-film comparison.
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Theatrical Trailer: For that hit of ’96 nostalgia.
Add it to your watch list because The Substitute is an intense, edge-of-your-seat, must-see film.
