City of God (2002)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

The film opens with a fast-paced montage of a gang chasing a chicken through the slums, known as the “City of God” (Cidade de Deus), a notorious neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. Amidst the chaos, Rocket (Alexandre Rodrigues), the narrator, finds himself caught between the gang and the police, setting the stage for the film’s exploration of violence and poverty.

Rocket’s Early Life

The story rewinds to the 1960s, depicting Rocket’s childhood. He grows up in the City of God alongside his brother Goose (Renato de Souza) and friends. Rocket dreams of becoming a photographer, hoping to escape the slum’s harsh realities.

The Tender Trio

The narrative shifts to the “Tender Trio,” a group of petty criminals consisting of Rocket’s brother Goose, Shaggy (Jonathan Haagensen), and Clipper (Jefechander Suplino). Their minor crimes and robberies are portrayed with a mix of humor and danger. However, their actions attract the attention of local authorities and rival gangs.

Lil Zé’s Rise to Power

As the 1970s approach, the story focuses on Lil Dice, a young and ruthless boy who idolizes the Tender Trio. During a motel robbery, Lil Dice executes a massacre, earning him the nickname Lil Zé (Leandro Firmino). As he grows older, Lil Zé becomes a powerful drug lord, taking control of the City of God through extreme violence and intimidation.

Rocket’s Struggles

Rocket struggles to find his place in the slum, avoiding the criminal path taken by his peers. He develops an interest in photography, capturing the brutal reality of life in the City of God. His passion for photography becomes a means of escape and a tool for documenting the truth.

Benny’s Influence

Lil Zé’s right-hand man, Benny (Phellipe Haagensen), stands out for his charisma and humanity. Benny’s desire to leave the criminal life and pursue a peaceful existence with his girlfriend Angelica (Alice Braga) highlights the possibility of redemption. However, Benny’s plans are tragically cut short when he is accidentally killed at his farewell party.

The Gang War

Following Benny’s death, a violent gang war erupts between Lil Zé and his rival, Knockout Ned (Seu Jorge). Knockout Ned, a former bus driver turned vigilante, seeks revenge for the rape of his girlfriend and the murder of his family by Lil Zé’s gang. The conflict escalates, engulfing the entire community in a cycle of retribution and bloodshed.

Rocket’s Breakthrough

Amidst the turmoil, Rocket captures a series of incriminating photographs of Lil Zé and his gang, which are published in a local newspaper. These photos bring Rocket recognition and an opportunity to leave the City of God. The exposure of Lil Zé’s criminal activities also leads to increased police pressure.

The Climax and Resolution

In the film’s climax, the police orchestrate a raid on Lil Zé’s stronghold. During the chaos, Lil Zé is captured and brutally killed by a group of young boys known as the “Runts,” who then take control of the drug trade. The cycle of violence continues, perpetuating the lawlessness and brutality of the City of God.

Movie Ending

The film concludes with Rocket reflecting on his journey and the endless cycle of violence in the City of God. Despite the bleakness, Rocket’s passion for photography offers a glimmer of hope and the possibility of a better future.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in City of God.

Type of Movie

City of God is a Brazilian crime drama that explores themes of poverty, violence, and the struggle for survival in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. The film is known for its raw, realistic portrayal of life in the favelas and its dynamic storytelling.

Cast

• Alexandre Rodrigues as Rocket (Buscapé)
• Leandro Firmino as Lil Zé (Zé Pequeno)
• Phellipe Haagensen as Benny (Bené)
• Douglas Silva as Lil Dice (Dadinho)
• Jonathan Haagensen as Shaggy (Cabeleira)
• Seu Jorge as Knockout Ned (Mane Galinha)
• Alice Braga as Angelica
• Matheus Nachtergaele as Carrot (Sandro Cenoura)
• Jefechander Suplino as Clipper
• Renato de Souza as Goose (Marreco)

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Antônio Pinto and Ed Côrtes, featuring a mix of Brazilian music genres that enhance the film’s vibrant yet gritty atmosphere.

Filming Locations

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The film was shot on location in various favelas around Rio de Janeiro, providing an authentic backdrop that reflects the harsh realities of life in the slums.

The realistic and immersive locations add to the film’s powerful depiction of the City of God’s environment.

Awards and Nominations

City of God received numerous awards and nominations, including:

• Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Director (Fernando Meirelles), Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Adapted Screenplay
• BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film Not in the English Language, Best Editing, Best Cinematography
• Golden Globes: Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Many of the actors were non-professionals cast from the favelas, lending authenticity to their performances.
• Director Fernando Meirelles employed a fast-paced, kinetic style of filming, using handheld cameras and rapid editing to create a sense of urgency and realism.
• The film is based on the semi-autobiographical novel Cidade de Deus by Paulo Lins, who grew up in the City of God.

Inspirations and References

The film draws heavily on Paulo Lins’ novel, which was inspired by real events and people in the City of God. The story reflects broader social issues in Brazil, such as poverty, violence, and systemic corruption.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

While the final cut of the film is considered definitive, some deleted scenes and expanded sequences provide additional context and character development. These can be found in special editions and DVD releases.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film closely follows the narrative of Paulo Lins’ novel but condenses and simplifies some plot points for cinematic pacing. Key themes and character dynamics remain intact, capturing the essence of life in the favelas.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The opening chase scene with the chicken.
• Lil Zé’s massacre at the motel.
• Benny’s farewell party and tragic death.
• Rocket’s capture of incriminating photos of Lil Zé.
• The final confrontation between Lil Zé and the Runts.

Iconic Quotes

• “If you run, the beast catches; if you stay, the beast eats.” – Rocket
• “I smoke, I snort, I’ve killed and robbed. I’m a man.” – Lil Zé
• “In the City of God, if you run away, they get you, and if you stay, they get you too.” – Rocket
• “This is the City of God. If you leave, you die. If you stay, you die.” – Knockout Ned

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film’s use of color and lighting shifts to reflect the changing tone and era, with brighter hues in Rocket’s youth and darker, more subdued tones as violence escalates.
• The rapid editing style mimics the frenetic pace of life in the favelas, enhancing the film’s immersive quality.
• Subtle details in the background often foreshadow characters’ fates and the cyclical nature of violence in the City of God.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was around $3.3 million, and it grossed over $30 million worldwide.
• Fernando Meirelles trained many of the non-professional actors through an intensive acting workshop, helping them deliver authentic performances.
• The film’s portrayal of violence and poverty sparked widespread discussion and brought international attention to the conditions in Brazil’s favelas.

Why Watch?

City of God is a gripping and unflinching portrayal of life in one of the world’s most dangerous neighborhoods. Its combination of raw storytelling, powerful performances, and dynamic cinematography make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and socially conscious cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

Fernando Meirelles also directed:

• The Constant Gardener (2005)
• Blindness (2008)
• 360 (2011)
• The Two Popes (2019)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
• Gomorrah (2008)
• La Haine (1995)
• Elite Squad (2007)
• American History X (1998)