Animal Room (1995)

In the throes of escalating school violence and the perplexing issue of uncontrollable students, educators and school heads embark on an experimental path, establishing a containment program for those who diverge from the conventional student mold. Among the ensnared is the intellectually sharp yet defiant Arnold Mosk, a known user of hallucinogens as an escape from his tumultuous existence both at school and home. Despite vehement protests from his school counselor, Arnold is unjustly branded as a troublemaker and roped into this draconian program. Arnold's old acquaintance, Gary Trancer, endeavors to rekindle their friendship and stand by him in these trying times. Simultaneously, the school's corridors echo with the sadistic laughter of Doug Van Housen, a sociopath who revels in the power of his gang of ruthless school bullies. Among their favorite prey is Arnold, whose life becomes a harrowing game of survival in the perverse jungle that their school has become. As the tension escalates, this volatile situation careens towards an unforeseen catastrophe. "Animal Room" is a chilling exploration of institutional failure and teenage cruelty, painting a stark picture of a school system grappling with its demons and the students trapped in its maze. This tale will grip you with its caustic portrayal of high school life, where survival of the cruelest seems to be the only rule.

Animal Room is a drama movie featuring Neil Patrick Harris and directed by Craig Singer.

Animal Room is currently streaming on IndieFlix.