Three former military robots, reprogrammed as teachers, are secretly deployed in a school dominated by gang-affiliated students. However, their military instincts resurface, leading them to violently discipline the unruly teens.
Director Mark L. Lester delivers an excellent science fiction thriller, echoing elements from Mad Max, The Warriors and Escape from New York to name a few. Class of 1999 Is a loose follow-up to his 1982 film Class of 1984. It’s on location shoot adds weight and the exciting action sets-ups are extremely entertaining.
With its delayed 1990 release, the film retains an '80s charm, enhanced by Eric Allard's practical effects and practical stunts. With reprogrammed military robots-turned-teachers manipulating rival gangs it borrows from The Terminator (1984), Yojimbo and by default A Fistful of Dollars. Despite its high-concept premise, with plenty of atmosphere the film rises above Roger Corman-style low-budget fare, thanks to Mark Irwin's cinematography, Lester's slick direction, and Scott Conrad's sharp editing. The inclusion of Midge Ure's theme song "Come the Day" and Michael Hoenig's score perfectly complements the robotic and gang mayhem.
Arguably over the top at times the cast features a strong lineup of familiar faces. The teachers, portrayed by legendary Pam Grier, oozing screen presence John P. Ryan, and character actor Patrick Kilpatrick, offer standout performances. Bradley Gregg and Traci Lind are likable leads, while veteran actors Stacy Keach and Malcolm McDowell play against type, adding depth and delivering twists.
Overall, Lester combines teenage angst and killer robots to create more than just a B-movie gem packed with thrills.
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