An escaped convict starts a new life as a Texas high school English teacher and wrestling coach, attempting to turn a fledgling team into a championship squad. He tries to make a difference in the life of a tough juvenile delinquent and falls in love with a fellow teacher, all while trying to keep out of sight of pursuing lawmen.
Acting
Robert Urich sells 'tender fugitive' with surprising vulnerability.
Practical Effects
Actual wrestling sequences, no doubles — the body slaps are real.
Writing
Shane's arc hits harder than expected for 1989.
Director
George T. Miller
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Spooner arrived at the tail end of the 'white savior teacher' boom, but Urich's criminal past complicates the formula in ways Lean on Me never attempted.
Director George T. Miller had just come off The NeverEnding Story II — this was his 'one for me' gritty pivot that barely got a theatrical release.
US
