A difficult to watch but very IMPORTANT movie to see

Rating: 9/10 (8 October 2010)

We chose this movie for our monthly "Great Films" series. It's accurately rated "R" for violence, gutter language, drugs, & sex. (One viewer left 1/4 way through because of this.) Roger Ebert said, "This is one of the best films you will EVER see."
For many people, this will not be a comfortable film to see. BUT, it IS a very worthwhile, important film because it gives a close view of the culture, the relationships, the expectations, of those living in poverty with the opportunities and outlooks of living in a culture dominated by drug dealing and violence.
In this instance, the culture is in Brazil's so-called "City of God"--a slum area set aside especially for the poorest people who were herded into an area just outside Rio de Janero.
The narrative deals with many in this area who become involved with drug dealing, rival gang warfare, and short life expectancies--as well as one, "Rocket", who transcends all odds to become a professional photographer. It's based on a true story. The film jumps back and forth occasionally to view episodes in the lives of various important characters in the film.
Although many people will find parts uncomfortable to see, yet (IMO) it's VERY deserving of its #19 ranking on IMDb's all-time 250 best films ever--and of wide viewing.
It goes a long way into showing the culture, the experiences, the motivations & expectations, the relationships in those communities in, e.g., Mexico, Colombia and everywhere that support the drug trade.