The latest D.C. Studios film Blue Beetle brings a new hero and a new family to the big screen. Directed by Puerto Rican filmmaker Angel Manuel Soto (Frailty, Charm City Kings, Menudo: Forever Young), the movie introduces Jaime Reyes to audiences as a directionless college graduate with a passion for flying and an interest in his father’s mysterious past. The story takes place in Palmera City, an original location created for the film that serves as a “neon-drenched amalgamation of different Latin American cultures.” An essential element in a movie is meant to speak to a whole community.

While Jaime’s newfound powers are certainly a big draw for his fanbase, there are plenty of reasons to see the film. As the first Latino superhero in a D.C. movie, it’s a huge step forward for the studio. And the movie’s star Xolo Mariduena quickly learned that he and his character have one big thing in common: They cannot hide anything from their families.

The Cobra Kai actor plays college graduate-turned-superhero Jaime Reyes in the film, which makes its debut this Friday. The Scarab Beetle-shaped hero is less well-known than Batman, Superman, or Wonder Woman, but the comic book character has a solid and growing fan base. The Blue Beetle movie marks the first time a live-action movie has been made of the character, though he’s appeared in the animated series Young Justice and had a guest spot on an episode of Smallville.

While the movie was initially slated to be a direct-to-streaming release for HBO Max, a decision that might have saved it from being shelved forever like it was for Batgirl, the film will now be in theaters. The cast includes Xolo Mariduena, who stars as Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle, Bruna Marquezine (Mayans M.C., God Save the King), Elpidia Carrillo (Rambo: Last Blood), Damian Alcazar (Narcos: Mexico, Predator series), Belissa Escobedo (American Horror Stories, Hocus Pocus 2) and Harvey Guillen (What We Do in the Shadows). Oscar winner Susan Sarandon is also featured as ruthless business owner Victoria Kord.

In addition to being the first film in a long while to feature a Latino superhero, the new movie is also notable for having a diverse cast that’s nearly half Hispanic. That could be a big part of why the movie has resonated with viewers. And it’s a message that the director hopes will continue to spread.