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Radical 2023

In a struggling Mexican border town, a dedicated teacher employs unique and often unorthodox methods to connect with his students and inspire them. Faced with apathy and challenging circumstances, he seeks to ignite a passion for learning and unlock their potential. His innovative approach leads to a transformative journey of self-discovery for both the students and the teacher, based on a true story.

In a struggling Mexican border town, a dedicated teacher employs unique and often unorthodox methods to connect with his students and inspire them. Faced with apathy and challenging circumstances, he seeks to ignite a passion for learning and unlock their potential. His innovative approach leads to a transformative journey of self-discovery for both the students and the teacher, based on a true story.

Does Radical have end credit scenes?

No!

Radical does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Ratings and Reviews for Radical

See how Radical is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Radical stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

68

Radical delivers an engaging emotional core driven by committed performances, even as its narrative adheres closely to familiar inspirational-teacher formulas. Critics praised Eugenio Derbez’s nuanced portrayal and the young cast’s natural chemistry, noting moments of genuine warmth and resonance. However, the film’s reliance on predictable arcs and occasional structural unevenness tempers its impact. Overall, Radical offers a heartfelt experience anchored by strong acting but remains within the bounds of its genre conventions.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Radical

70
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, Radical benefits from competent direction and a grounded production design that conveys the Mexican border setting authentically. The film’s visual approach is straightforward, with a restrained color palette that supports its realistic tone. Editing maintains clarity but rarely ventures into bold stylistic choices. Overall, the technical execution is solid but does not push beyond conventional storytelling aesthetics.

80
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character and emotion, Radical is elevated by Eugenio Derbez’s empathetic performance and the young actors’ genuine rapport. The characters display credible growth, and the film invests in moments of heartfelt connection between teacher and students. Emotional beats resonate without feeling overly sentimental, thanks to measured pacing and believable dialogue. Generally, the cast’s strength yields a compelling emotional center.

60
Echo Score

Story & Flow

Regarding story and flow, Radical unfolds along well-worn inspirational-teacher story beats that limit its originality. The pacing can feel uneven, with a slow first half that accelerates dramatically once core lessons take hold. While the sequence of obstacles and triumphs remains engaging, several plot points emerge from predictable conventions. Overall, the narrative structure delivers satisfaction but lacks substantial surprises.

60
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

In terms of sensory experience, Radical offers a cohesive soundscape and unobtrusive score that support its emotional moments. The sound design is clear, allowing dialogue and ambient noise of the classroom to register naturally. Visually, the film employs a restrained style that emphasizes realism over spectacle. While the sensory elements effectively serve the story, they do not generate memorable flourishes.

55
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

Concerning rewatch factor, Radical’s uplifting themes and strong performances provide some enduring appeal. The film’s formulaic plot and predictable resolution, however, may diminish the incentive for multiple viewings. While viewers may return for the emotional highlights or to revisit standout moments of teaching innovation, the overall familiarity of the story suggests modest lasting intrigue.

Metacritic

70

Metascore

6.1

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

96%

TOMATOMETER

review

99%

User Score

IMDb

7.8 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

84

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.9

From 176 fan ratings

Movie Insider

5.00/5

From 3 fan ratings

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Radical

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Radical. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer [Subtitled]

Eugenio Derbez & Christopher Zalla | RADICAL - Q&A | Film Independent Presents

RADICAL Seminar with Christopher Zalla & Eugenio Richer

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


12 year old boyprologuedog12 year oldteacherteacher student relationshipclassclassroomschool uniformphilosophyaspiring areospace engineerfather daughter relationshipmother daughter relationshipbackpackmotorcycletelescopeeducationreference to john stuart millmagazine coverjunkyardjunkmanballoonboygirlhand mirrorsixth gradegunfiregunmurderdonkeydonkey and cartpregnancybathtubbeachboatflotationsciencelibrarycomputerbased on real peoplephotographs during end creditspovertymoneybabymatamoros mexicomexicoco written by directoroverhead camera shotbased on true story12 year old girl

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