City of God Review: A Furious, Dazzling Crime Epic

Madison Clarke
MoviesCrimeDrama
City of God (2002)

9/10 — City of God (2002)

Pros

  • Kinetic filmmaking
  • Authentic performances
  • Powerful social portrait

Cons

  • Very violent
  • Some rushed plotlines

Inspired by true events, City of God follows two boys growing up in a Rio de Janeiro favela, one who becomes a photographer, the other a ruthless drug lord. Fernando Meirelles directs with a manic energy, often with non-professional actors.

What works

The film moves at breakneck speed, its jump cuts, flashbacks and handheld camerawork pulling you into a world where children carry guns. The performances, especially Leandro Firmino’s chilling Li’l Zé, feel startlingly authentic, and the storytelling has a vitality that never feels exploitative.

Where it falters

Its violence is relentless and sometimes difficult to watch, and some of the plot threads feel rushed.

Verdict

Ferocious, stylish and heartbreaking. A modern classic of world cinema.

Madison ClarkeBy Madison Clarke