Cast
View All
Edward James Olmos
as Jaime A. Escalante
Lou Diamond Phillips
as Angel Guzman
Rosanna DeSoto
as Fabiola Escalante
Andy García
as Dr. Ramirez
Estelle Harris
as Secretary
Mark Phelan
as Cop
Virginia Paris
as Raquel Ortega
Eliot
as Tito (as Mark Eliot)
Adelaida Alvarez
as Sexy Girl
Carmen Argenziano
as Molina
Bodie Olmos
as Fernando Escalante
Vanessa Marquez
as Ana Delgado
Graham Galloway
as Craig
Daniel Villarreal
as Chuco
Manuel Benitez
as Heavy Metal Boy
Crew
Director
- Ramón Menéndez
Writer
- Tom Musca
- Ramón Menéndez
Producer
- Tom Musca
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Stand and Deliver examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ramón Menéndez brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Stand and Deliver took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 467 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 2059 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Stand and Deliver shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Grave Decisions, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Stand and Deliver subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like To End All Wars and The Piano Teacher explore similar territory, Stand and Deliver stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 11, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 43m
- Revenue: $13,994,920
