A haunting look at life in a Brazilian slum town

Rating: 9/10 (29 November 2003)

This is a movie that stays with you for a long time. Beautifully directed, perfectly paced, and with a very realistic cast of actors (maybe a little too real at times). It's a brutal, cruel, and darkly funny film.
The title of the film refers to the name of a slum in an unidentified Brazilian town, where various characters hustle and try to make something of themselves (illegally, for the most part). The narrator is a smart, thoughtful fellow by the name of "Rocket." Rocket is trying to avoid becoming a hoodlum and find a safe career in life, unlike his peers. Yet he finds himself involved in the stark politics of his hometown, the City of God.
Anyone who argues against gun control and for an armed population should see this film. Perhaps they'll reconsider their stance. Then again, maybe not. In any case, expect some truly sickening moments in this movie (both graphic and emotionally wrenching), as well as unexpectedly funny scenes. Yes, it's very contradictory, but very much like real life. Truly, you won't truly understand the actions/motivations of thugs and their drugs until you see this movie.