City of God (DIFF)

Based on the book by anthropologist Paulo Lins that fictionalised his research into the poverty-stricken Rio neighbourhood Cidade de Deus, the film shows how drug gangs dominated the city's poor favela areas. Rocket a photographer, attempts to avoid the prevalent violence and crime and aspires for a better life. His life contrasts with L’il Zé who rises to become a ruthless crime lord alongside his friend Bené. The film is groundbreaking in its realistic portrayal of life in the favelas and features non-professional actors. The result is a powerful and unfiltered story and a world of contrasts, where hope and despair coexist.