Movie Reviews

City of God

Starring: Alexandre Rodrigues, Matheus Nachtergaele, Alice Braga, Seu Jorge, Leandro Firmino da Hora
Directed by: Fernando Meirelles, Katia Lund
Distributor: Miramax Films (picked up at Cannes)

Based on a true story, this Brazilian feature film in Portuguese with English subtitles, is set in the ghettos on the outskirts of Rio De Janeiro in the 60s and 70's. It follows groups of very young mobsters who turn to crime to feed themselves, their families and their egos. The violence and massacres are glamorized with the hoodlums becoming heroes to many poor young people who are looking for someone to lead them.

This is a great movie to see, even if only to appreciate the relatively safe surroundings we live in in the western world. The characters where well cast and convincing in their roles. If you can stomach violence, then head to the theater to see this thought provoking film.

~Sheila, February 2003

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