Capsule Review: City Of God (2002)

A tale of youth gangs running wild in Rio De Jinero seen through the eyes of a young photographer, City Of God could have easily collapsed under the weighty (and true to life) material, but the director(s) bring a litany of stylish Tarantinoesque tricks to bring energy and verve (and often humor) to the sometimes shocking scenes. Employing musicians (including musician Seu Jorge), some of whom come from the actual city of god, this is a must see. Followed by the film City Of Men, as well as a television series.