City of God (2002) Review in 2025
City of God is a gritty and intense crime drama set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, following the lives of young gangsters and their struggles in a harsh environment.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to graphic violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
City of God is a must-see for fans of crime dramas and gritty thrillers. It's a intense and thought-provoking film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie tells the story of Rocket, a young boy who grows up in the slums of Rio and becomes involved in a powerful gang, leading to a series of violent and tragic events that ultimately change the course of his life.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a gripping narrative that explores the harsh realities of life in the slums. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with each member of the cast delivering a standout performance. Alexandre Rodrigues is particularly impressive, bringing a depth and nuance to the role of Rocket.
characters9.20/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the story. The main character, Rocket, is particularly well-portrayed, with a compelling performance from Alexandre Rodrigues.
direction9.50/10
The direction is superb, with Fernando Meirelles bringing a unique visual style to the film. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty and intense atmosphere of the slums.
cinematography9.80/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with a unique blend of handheld camera work and sweeping vistas. The use of color and lighting is also noteworthy, adding to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's gripping narrative, well-developed characters, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the crime drama genre. The performances are also superb, with Alexandre Rodrigues delivering a standout performance as Rocket.
Cons
The film's graphic violence and mature themes may be off-putting for some viewers. Additionally, the pacing can be a bit slow in some sections, which may test the patience of some viewers.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a gangster, I'm a businessman."
"You're either a king or a slave, there's no in between."
