"Radical," a captivating film from Mexico, unfolds in Spanish and tells the moving true story of a revolutionary educator's efforts in a poverty-stricken area. The narrative centers around Chucho (Daniel Haddad), who manages an elementary school plagued by gang violence and corruption. Sergio (Eugenio Derbez), a new teacher, joins the school under challenging circumstances, replacing a faculty member who abruptly quit.
Chucho has almost resigned to the harsh reality that meaningful education seems unattainable in such an environment. The students encounter crime scenes en route to school, their resources are outdated, and many drop out early, lured by gangs or the need to support their families. The school, often mocked as a punitive institution, operates under Chucho’s stern motto that discipline begets learning. He remains uninterested in defying the status quo or questioning authority, even when funds for essentials like the computer lab are misappropriated.
Sergio’s teaching philosophy, inspired by the ideas of Sugata Mitra and A.S. Neill, emphasizes student-led learning. He dismisses the conventional emphasis on grades and rote learning, instead encouraging students to embrace their mistakes and curiosities. Sergio’s unconventional methods, such as rearranging desks to simulate a life-saving scenario, spark the students' interest in subjects like math and physics through real-world applications.
One student, Paloma (Jennifer Trejo), discovers a passion for math and astronomy, leading Sergio to suggest she could become an aerospace engineer. The film also highlights other students, including Lupe, who explores philosophy despite personal challenges, and Nico, torn between drug smuggling and a yearning for education.
Eugenio Derbez delivers a charismatic performance, resonating particularly in his interactions with the young cast. This strength is evident, as seen in his previous roles in “Coda” and “Miracles from Heaven.” The child actors, especially Jennifer Trejo as Paloma, shine with remarkable expressiveness.
Sergio's goal is to instigate a shift in the school's rigid systems and, more importantly, in the minds of his students. He aims to ignite a desire for learning, to equip them with the skills to learn, and to awaken their potential and curiosity. This transformative influence extends to Chucho, rekindling his passion for teaching.
A poignant scene in the film features Sergio and Chucho reflecting on the educators who inspired them. This conversation allows Chucho to reconnect with his initial motivations for becoming a teacher. The film reminds us of the impact that a single inspiring teacher can have and that it's never too late to rediscover our potential. "Radical" is a testament to the power of innovative teaching and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
