Welcome to The Best Movies I’ve Never Seen! This is the part of the blog where I work my way through 100 films I’ve never seen that are generally considered to be great. You’re invited to watch along with me if you can find a copy or find it streaming. So grab some popcorn and let’s get started!

City of God

2002

Directed by Fernando Meirelles & Kátia Lund

The 2002 Brazilian crime epic City of God is a sprawling yet intimate look at the growth of organized crime in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and co-directed by Kátia Lund, the film adeptly weaves multiple storylines and characters to depict the violence and despair that consumed City of God from the 1960s to the 1980s.

Based on the novel by Paulo Lins, City of God stars mostly amateur actors like Alexandre Rodrigues as Rocket, the young photographer who bears witness to the rise of villains like Li’l Ze (Leandro Firmino). Douglas Silva stands out as Li’l Ze’s friend-turned-rival Benny, representing a tragic morality amidst the brutality. The cast’s raw performances transport us right into the favelas alongside Rocket as he navigates adolescence and dreams of escape.

Meirelles employs a kinetic visual style, with deft camerawork and editing that captures both the vibrancy of the community and the shocking violence. One particular standout scene follows Li’l Ze’s gang as they hunt for a runaway chicken, the camera gliding seamlessly through narrow alleys. César Charlone deservedly earned a Best Cinematography Oscar nomination for his work.

At its core, City of God is about how cycles of poverty and crime consume lives and communities. Meirelles highlights the lack of opportunities that push kids like Li’l Ze toward violence, while also emphasizing Rocket’s hope of breaking free through his photography. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting shocking cruelty but also reveals glimmers of humanity.

City of God drew worldwide acclaim upon release, garnering Oscar nominations and introducing incredible new talent. Though difficult to watch at times, it remains an unforgettable film that captures a specific time and place with incredible emotional impact. Meirelles and his team have crafted a modern crime saga epic that deserves to be seen.