AustLit

'The film tells the true story of a remarkable relationship between a young teacher and deeply disturbed 13 year-old boy. [...] The product of a broken home, Tom vents his aggression through playing truant, stealing cars and motor bikes, and violent behaviour towards others.

'He and his cronies hang around outside pubs, sipping from cans of beer and taking part in generally anti-social behaviour such as street fights and "gang bangs".

'Not without reason, he is dismissed by most adults as a hopeless case, a delinquent headed for a life of crime.

'Embling attempts to understand Tom's problems, committing himself fully to the boy and providing him with a relationship that is honest and physically secure.

'The teacher and student pass through stages of hostility and caring, frustration and hope, suspicion and trust.

'The relationship is constantly thwarted by the apathy and active opposition of other teachers and officials whose approach is often as brutal as it is archaic.

'Ultimately, Embling and Tom win their fight to a better future.'

Source:

'"Fighting Back" Moved Marshall to Tears', Canberra Times, 12 May 1982, p.24.