Review of City of God (2002) by Sebastian T — 28 Jul 2012

City of God "Cidade De Deus" is directed by Fernando Meirelles. It is based on the novel of same name by Paulo Lins. This was Brazilian contender at Academy Award for Best Foreign Language film, but couldn't make up to the final list. Film depicts real events of organized crime from the late 60s to peak 80s; gang-war between two rivals, one led by drug-dealer Li'l Zé and smaller-drug-dealer Knockout Ned. It's quick and gripping with its full-throttled violence that churns out extreme performance from (frankly) non-professional actors, most of whom were residents of different areas including Cidade De Dues. There are several disturbing scenes, but in case of reality, we can do nothing but accept the world we are actually living.

With superb direction, documentary-style cinematography (César Charlone) and stunning editing (Daniel Rezende-all of three categories were nominated for Oscar) City of God has reached us to one of best films from the last decade (2000s). It's a pure bloodbath journey through the slums of Rio de Janeiro.