Outskirts of Buenos Aires, nowadays.

Lucio, a prestigious university professor, takes the position of substitute teacher at a high school in the suburbs of Buenos Aires, where he grew up. Through tales, novels and poetry, he tries to distract his class from the harsh reality of their everyday lives. But soon, he must step out of his professional duties when Dilan, one of his students, is threatened by a local drug kingpin.

Diego Lerman's "The Substitute" reflects the social tensions and everyday realities faced by many students and teachers across South America. The film has participated in the Toronto and San Sebastián film festivals.