Watch Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson

Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson, released in 1989, is the twenty-fourth film in the Perry Mason television movie series, starring Raymond Burr as the titular character. The film, directed by Christian I. Nyby II, follows Perry Mason as he takes on the seemingly simple case of a high school teacher accused of murdering a former student. The movie also features Barbara Hale as Della Street and Alexandra Paul as Teri Fowler, a former student of the accused teacher.

The film opens with Perry Mason attending a ceremony where he is awarded an honorary degree from a local university. After the ceremony, he meets Teri Fowler, a former student who is now a successful journalist. Teri tells Perry about her former high school teacher, Jonathan Wells, who has been accused of murdering one of his former students, Scott Renfro. Teri believes that Wells is innocent and enlists Perry's help in proving his innocence.

As Perry begins to investigate the case, he discovers that the case is not as straightforward as it seems. He learns that Renfro was not the model student he appeared to be and had a history of drug abuse and stealing. Perry also finds out that Renfro had been blackmailing one of his teachers, leading Perry to suspect that Renfro's murder was related to his involvement in illicit activities.

Along with Della and private investigator Paul Drake Jr. (William R. Moses), Perry delves deeper into the case, uncovering a web of corruption that goes all the way to the top of the school district. As they get closer to the truth, Perry and his team find themselves in danger as they battle against those who will do anything to keep the truth from coming out.

As with many of the Perry Mason movies, the cast is excellent, with Raymond Burr returning to his iconic role as the brilliant defense attorney. Barbara Hale is also excellent as Della Street, Perry's loyal secretary, and William R. Moses provides a good supporting role as private investigator Paul Drake Jr.

The movie also features Alexandra Paul as Teri Fowler, the former student of the accused teacher. Paul delivers a strong performance as Terri, providing both drama and levity to the film. Additionally, Linda Blair, who is best known for her role in The Exorcist, also features in a small but memorable role as a drug-addicted student.

The plot of the movie is engaging and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film does an excellent job of slowly revealing the truth behind the murder, giving the audience just enough information to keep them intrigued without revealing too much too soon.

The movie also features some excellent suspenseful moments, particularly towards the end of the film. The final courtroom scene is particularly suspenseful, providing a satisfying conclusion to the film.

Overall, Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson is an engaging and entertaining movie. The cast is excellent, the plot is engaging, and the suspenseful moments keep the audience engaged until the very end. While it may not be the best movie in the Perry Mason series, it is certainly worth watching for fans of the show and legal dramas in general.