SPARE THE ROD is an interesting little school drama with a much grittier edge than expected. There's no sugar coating here, just a proper look at the issue of school discipline and one which shows both sides of the approach without preaching. Light entertainer Max Bygraves is an odd choice for the central role and while he's not a great actor he does well with his approach here and comes across as likable. The more seasoned likes of Donald Pleasence and Geoffrey Keen are excellent as the other teachers at the school and the film is one of those that gradually creeps up on you with a slow-burning character approach. Things build to a suitably fraught climax which is well worth the wait.
Review of Spare the Rod
