Almost as improbably as Paloma rises above Matamoros’ sinking conditions through Sergio’s tutelage, Radical rises above its heavy-handed script, loaded with clichés and familiar beats, through the loving attention and dynamism of its veteran filmmakers.

Somehow, it works. In large part this is thanks to the performances. Derbez is very likable, if a little too prone to moments of moist-eyed pathos, but the young actors are phenomenal.

Christopher Zalla is never other than smart and sensitive, while drawing fine performances from his young cast — a sweet echo of this model relationship between teacher and student.

Radical stands out for the grit and honesty of its storytelling and setting, and for the unfakeable authenticity and commitment of the mostly young cast.