“City of God” is a critically acclaimed Brazilian crime drama film released in 2002. The film was directed by Fernando Meirelles and co-directed by Kátia Lund. It is based on the novel of the same name by Paulo Lins, which tells the story of organized crime in the Brazilian favelas (slums) of Rio de Janeiro from the 1960s to the 1980s.

The film is known for its nonlinear narrative, its use of amateur actors, and its gritty and realistic portrayal of the violent gang culture in the favelas. It follows the lives of several characters, including Rocket, a young man who dreams of becoming a photographer; Li’l Zé, a violent and ruthless gang leader; and Knockout Ned, a man seeking revenge against Li’l Zé for the murder of his brother.

“City of God” was a critical and commercial success, winning numerous awards, including four Academy Award nominations. It has been praised for its powerful storytelling, its depiction of social inequality and violence, and its exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and the cycle of violence. It is considered one of the most important films of Brazilian cinema and a classic of world cinema.