TEHRAN- “Radical”, a 2023 Mexican comedy-drama film written and directed by Christopher Zalla, will go on screen at the Arasbaran Cultural Center in Tehran on Wednesday.

The screening will be followed by a review session by Iranian critics Kurosh Jahed.

The film follows the story of Sergio Juarez Correa, a new teacher who arrives in 2011 at the poorly-run Jose Urbina Lopez Elementary in Matamoros. In an environment plagued by drug cartel violence, the students at the school face some of the lowest academic scores in Mexico due to the lack of resources, including computers, and the teachers' focus on passing standardized tests rather than inspiring true learning.

Sergio surprises his sixth-grade students by adopting an unconventional teaching method that prompts them to solve problems creatively. For instance, he transforms the classroom by flipping all the desks upside down to represent boats in an ocean, encouraging mathematical thinking. This unique approach leads his students to discover the correct answers, much to the surprise of the school principal, Chucho.

Despite initial skepticism, Sergio's teaching style starts to show positive results as his students become more independent thinkers and gain confidence beyond their challenging circumstances. By fostering student-led learning, he engages the children like never before, earning support even from Chucho when the outcomes prove successful.

However, Sergio faces opposition from a visiting administrator who disapproves of the students openly discussing moral issues. While attempting to defend his teaching methods, Sergio is sidelined and disheartened, ultimately withdrawing from his responsibilities following the tragic death of Nico, one of his students, causing a setback in the students' academic progress.

Moved by concerns for Sergio, Chucho visits him at home to offer encouragement and persuade him not to give up on the sixth graders. After reflecting on his mission, Sergio reconnects with his gifted student, Paloma, and convinces her father to support her dream of becoming an aerospace engineer. As the academic year draws to a close, Sergio rushes to the school during standardized testing to motivate his students to believe in themselves, leading to their success on the exams.

Inspired by Sergio's guidance, some of his students go on to achieve success in private business and secure positions at major tech companies in the United States, illustrating the transformative impact of his innovative teaching methods.

At the 7th Astra Film Awards, “Radical” was nominated for Best International Feature while Eugenio Derbez was nominated for Best International Actor.

At the Sundance Film Festival, the film received the Festival Favorite Award.

SAB/