Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (7 October 2019)

City of God directed by Fernando Meirelles and co director Katia Lund has a very deceitful title for a film that takes us down a path of heartache and carnage. What amazes me most about the film is the astounding character development that takes place throughout the plot. Perhaps the best example of this is following Lil Ze and his storyline. Originating with his childhood Lil Ze quickly develops into apathetic killer at the tragic age of ten, when he guns down room of people with a wicked laugh. As he ages it becomes clear that he is an individual who cannot function in society. A great display of his inability to function as an individual is found during the scene of Benny's going away party. Lil Ze is furious with Benny's decision to leave and resents the girlfriend because this was the only person Lil Ze was ever able to connect with. While attending the party Lil Ze is seen as awkward and inept in social situations furthering his anger. With the murder of Benny Lil Ze comes full bloom into the monster that he is and continues on to commit a myriad of heinous acts. Through the use of nonlinear storytelling Meirelles does a phenomenal job of depicting each of his characters and their growth and adaption. I also think the choice to use nonprofessional actors helps cement the realism of each of these characters. Again in the case of Lil Ze, the actor actually endured an upbringing in the City of God and was able to deliver it on screen. In addition to the acting and character development the cinematography is what cements this movie as a 10/10 for me. The vibrant use of colors combined with the effortless flow of camera work illustrates what a master Cesar Charlone. This movie and its combination of acting, mise en scene, editing, sound track and the powerful message it sends warrant the perfect score, all the awards received and cement it a place in film history.