Carlin is a new reform school inmate with a reputation as a hard case. The authorities encourage gang leader Pongo to humble Carlin, but Carlin overtakes Pongo as Daddy of the ward. The guards institute a reign of terror and neglect, with Carlin emerging as an unlikely leader.

Ray Winstone
as Carlin

Mick Ford
as Archer

Julian Firth
as Davis

John Blundell
as Banks

Phil Daniels
as Richards

John Judd
as Mr. Sands

Philip Jackson
as Mr Greaves

Peter Howell
as Governor

Bill Dean
as Mr Duke

John Grillo
as Mr Goodyear