Elite Squad
In 2007, Padilha directed "Elite Squad", his first fictional film. The film was a commercial and critical success, seen by more than 11 million people in Brazil, coming in at number 1 in 2007. In 2008, Padilha won the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival for "Elite Squad", bringing him international attention. The budget was just over 6 million dollars, and included funding from the Weinstein Company, and several others. This film sparked discussions regarding police brutality in Brazil, as well as their alleged involvement with gang related activities. Due to the success of "Elite Squad", a 2010 sequel was released: "". It still holds the record highest domestic grossing film and all-time largest box office ticket sales in Brazil. This film was selected as Brazil's official Academy Awards' entry in 2012 for Best Foreign Film, but it did not make the final shortlist. The films form part of a planned trilogy, examining the influence of media, police and politicians on society.