A newcomer from Connecticut (James Spader) finds himself attending a public school in Los Angeles when his family relocates due to financial setbacks. He becomes interested in the girlfriend (Kim Richards) of a local gang leader (Paul Mones), which quickly leads to conflict. "Tuff Turf," released in 1985, shares plot elements with "The Karate Kid" from the previous year, but doesn't quite measure up because it att…

The early 1980s proved to be a fertile period for aspiring actors in Hollywood; many were offered starring roles, even when the projects themselves weren't exceptional, because they provided exposure. This film marked James Spader’s initial leading role, portraying a withdrawn newcomer whose circumstances echo those of “Rebel Without A Cause.” He finds himself targeted by tough students while simultaneously falling f…