6) City of God (2002) – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

City of God portrays Rio’s favelas as raw and unfiltered, showing how crime and poverty dominate life there. The chaotic streets become a battlefield where survival is a daily struggle. Scenes like Lil Zé’s rise to power highlight the brutal reality of the environment. Yet, moments of resilience and community shine through, reflecting the vibrancy of Rio’s culture. The film makes the city feel alive, capturing both its beauty and its stark inequalities in a way that feels deeply human.
Edited by Anshika Jain
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