Central Station (1998) Review in 2025
Central Station is a heart-wrenching drama about a young boy's journey to find his missing father, exploring themes of poverty, loss, and redemption in modern-day Brazil.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and some disturbing scenes, but it's a great choice for older teenagers and adults.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of drama and thriller genres. It's a powerful and emotional film that explores complex themes and features stunning cinematography. Watch it on a big screen or with a good sound system to fully appreciate its impact.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film follows the story of Josué, a young boy who sets out on a perilous journey from Rio de Janeiro to Belo Horizonte to find his father, who abandoned him and his mother. Along the way, he meets a kind-hearted young woman, Dora, who becomes his companion and helps him navigate the challenges they face.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong narrative that explores the complexities of poverty, loss, and redemption in modern-day Brazil. The film's themes are timely and thought-provoking, making it a compelling watch.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Vinicius de Oliveira delivering a standout performance as Josué. The supporting cast is also strong, with Fernanda Montenegro and Glória Pires delivering memorable performances.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Josué and Dora being particularly memorable. The performances are strong, with Vinicius de Oliveira delivering a standout performance as the young protagonist.
direction9.00/10
Walter Salles' direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the story's themes. The film's cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and grit of modern-day Brazil.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Brazilian landscape and a keen eye for detail. The use of color and lighting is also noteworthy, adding to the film's emotional impact.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's themes are timely and thought-provoking, the cinematography is stunning, and the performances are strong. The story is engaging and well-paced, making it a compelling watch.
Cons
Some scenes may be disturbing for younger viewers, and the film's pace can be slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a saint, but I'm trying to be a good person."
"The world is a cruel place, but it's also a beautiful one."
