Parents' Guide to Radical

Parents need to know that Radical is a moving Mexican drama based on the true story of a teacher who experimented with a new educational approach in the border town of Matamoros. The area is impacted by narco violence, corruption, poverty, and neglect. Gunfights are heard, and the bleeding bodies of gunshot victims are briefly seen in the streets. In one confrontation, a child is killed (not shown on-screen). There's drug trafficking involving minors, and one villain asks a girl whether she's a virgin and tries to kidnap her (others defend her and don't let it happen). A 12-year-old boy is romantically interested in his schoolmate and asks his teacher how to get her to notice him. She gives him a kiss on the cheek. A man wearing shorts without a shirt takes a plunge in a water tank. Two men drink a beer. Language in English subtitles (for U.S. release) includes "s--t" and a use of "f---ing." The Mexican cast is led by star Eugenio Derbez, who also helped produce the film, which has strong themes of curiosity, perseverance, integrity, and courage. The film also shows how traditional gender roles and economic deprivation perpetuate poverty but treats impoverished people with respect and dignity, moving away from negative stereotypes.

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