LOS ANGELES — Based on a true story, “Radical” tells the story of a Mexican border town teacher, Sergio Juárez Correa, played by Eugenio Derbez (“CODA”), who tries a radical new method of teaching to get his students to break through and reach their full potential.

In 2013, Joshua Davis wrote a story about Juárez Correa for a Wired magazine article, paving the way for the film.

In an interview with Spectrum News, Derbez said he was honored to play someone like Juárez Correa.

“To be able to portray a Mexican who is not a gang member or a narco, who is a nice guy, who is a teacher that changed the lives of all these kids, I feel really honored and happy to tell his story and show it to the world,” he said.

Christopher Zalla, the film’s director, told Spectrum News there was a very emotional place he was interested in going to: the inspirational teacher. “It is such an important thing right now. Right out of COVID even. We lost touch with what all of this is about,” Zalla said.

Those who watch the film might get a sense of nostalgia, remembering films like “Stand and Deliver,” and pondering on that one teacher who not only made a difference in their life but also always believed in their full potential.

Derbez, who is best known for comedic roles, told Spectrum News he does not plan on leaving comedy, but for now, he is broadening his horizons.

The film also stars Danilo Guardiola, Jennifer Trejo and Mia Fernanda Solis.

“Radical,” Fernanda Solis said, is a message of hope for viewers.

“I want them to know they have a lot of potential. Despite the circumstances, they can get far. They can reach their dreams,” she said.

“Radical,” which was filmed on location in San Salvador Atenco, Mexico, is now playing in theaters.

Click the arrow above to watch the full interview with the cast and film’s director.