Powerful film, inspired by true events, takes us through a school hostage situation step by agonizing step.

Deeply troubled Jason Copeland decides to go on a rampage at his former high school out of revenge for failing to be awarded his high school diploma. His life has been a mess ever since then and he blames one teacher in particular, Mr Kroft, whose classroom he enters first.

The situation escalates and Jason winds up with 60 hostages and several casualties in his wake. Rick Schroder plays the part of Jason brilliantly as we witness his transition from crazed, gun-toting lunatic to a defeated and broken man. What happens in between is fascinating.

Henry Winkler turns in a great performance as a dedicated (yet inexperienced) cop who finds himself thrust into the unenviable position of negotiating with Jason.

Rick Schroder (who seems to have effortlessly made the transition from cute child star to credible adult actor),Freddie Prinze Jr (in one of his earlier roles) and the lovely, luminous and under-used actress Katie Wright all give fine performances they should be proud of.

Ok I know this is a Old 1997 TV FILM. But as a TV Film it is Fantastic. Ricky Schroder was Crazy Gun Man. Freddie a Newer Younger Actor Back then was Really Good in this Film. Pretty much saving alot of Teens Lives bye working with the Gun man's head how. Just doing simple things. What I really Loved in this Film was The FONZ He was the MAIN POLICE MAN IN CHARGE. He was really good at the Job just keeping the Gun Man. calmed down. Tricking him to let out some of the Teens. This was one of my Favorite TV Film's of the 90s. Great cast and the Film kept you on your seat. But that Kid Named Freddie I really think it was great for his career. Actually alot of Teens in this Film were really good. Oh I am a Ricky Schroder Fan Big Time in this Film all Dirty Messed up. He looked like a Slim Ball even his T-shirt was Filthy. His Hair was all greasy and long and slimmy. He looked like he didn't shower in months. I Love it when a Actor just gets into Carator. He even just ate junk food Lol. He would not even eat Pizza.

I was a senior at Lindhurst High School the day of the shooting in 1992, and this movie, which the story was based, has done its homework. There is not a day that goes by that I am not, in some way, reminded or affected by the horrific events of that May 1 day. I was 19 at the time of the shooting when I lost my first period teacher, which this film portrays. He was more like a lifelong family friend than just my Civics Instructor. He was a true mentor to me and an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He will continue to be missed and never forgotten. This true-to-life epic recaptures the raw terror and horror of the siege. I very highly recommend this movie to everyone.