Stand and Deliver (1988) Review in 2025
Stand and Deliver is a biographical drama film based on the true story of Jaime Escalante, a math teacher who transforms a group of underprivileged students into top-notch calculus students.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is highly recommended for anyone looking for an inspiring and uplifting film about the power of education. It's a must-watch for teachers, students, and anyone who's ever been inspired by a great teacher.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows Jaime Escalante, a math teacher who takes on the challenge of teaching calculus to a group of students from East Los Angeles. Despite the initial skepticism and resistance from the students, Escalante's unorthodox teaching methods and dedication help the students to overcome their personal struggles and achieve academic success.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and inspiring, with a clear focus on the transformative power of education. The film's portrayal of Jaime Escalante's dedication and passion for teaching is truly admirable.
acting9.50/10
The acting is exceptional, with Edward James Olmos delivering a standout performance as Jaime Escalante. The supporting cast is also excellent, bringing depth and nuance to their respective characters.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Jaime Escalante being the standout character. The students' struggles and triumphs are also well-portrayed, making their journey feel authentic and inspiring.
direction9.00/10
The direction is superb, with Ramón Menéndez bringing the story to life with a clear vision and attention to detail. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of drama, humor, and inspiration.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is decent, with some impressive shots of the Los Angeles cityscape. However, the film's color palette is somewhat muted, which may detract from the overall visual impact.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's inspiring story, exceptional acting, and superb direction make it a standout film. The film's portrayal of Jaime Escalante's dedication and passion for teaching is truly admirable.
Cons
The film's cinematography is somewhat muted, and the pacing may feel a bit slow for some viewers.
Notable Quotes
"I don't want to be a teacher, I want to be a facilitator of learning."
"You're not just teaching math, you're teaching life."
