A wide open window into Favelas

Rating: 10/10 (7 July 2014)

Meirelles didn't hesitated in showing us how tough life can be.
Great storyline, with an impressive narrative, astonishing camera work... There's no place for irrelevant screen time. And such an exquisite authenticness! We are actually watching people who live(d) there.
We are taken into a world where violence and manhood (as they know it) come so early in life, where your choices have to include the possibility of getting killed; or take lives, instead. Although the environment is drenched in blood, drugs and crime, the existence of loyalty, respect, responsibility, and even happiness is right around the corner.
Tough film with a powerful message.