Teacher is a psychological thriller directed by Adam Dick and written by Chris St. Croix. The film explores the idea of how trauma is passed on from one person to another and how it can affect generations. The story revolves around James Lewis (David Dastmalchian), a high school English teacher who becomes obsessed with protecting his favorite students from bullies.
As he goes to disturbing lengths to achieve his goal, James becomes increasingly erratic, making his colleagues and students uncomfortable. The school principal (Kevin Pollak) becomes suspicious of James' behavior and informs a wealthy patron of the school, who takes it upon himself to investigate the situation.
As the stress from his personal life, including his failing marriage and estranged daughter, combine with his obsession to protect his students, James' mental state deteriorates. The film plunges deep into the darkness of James' mind and his desperate attempts to hold onto a sense of control over his life and the lives of those around him.
Throughout the film, the audience is taken on a psychological rollercoaster that explores themes of power, control, trauma, and the lengths one will go to protect those they care about. The film stars David Dastmalchian, Kevin Pollak, Esme Perez, and Curtis Edward Jackson.
Teacher was released on September 3, 2021, and has received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and story. The film is a poignant reminder of how trauma can take hold and spread like a contagion, affecting those who come in contact with it for years to come.