This is among the finest films Brazil has sent out on the international stage. As someone from Portugal, I feel I have a reasonable understanding of Brazilian realities, given the historical and cultural connections between our countries. Therefore, I’m not surprised by the depiction this film offers—a world rarely seen in Rio de Janeiro's tourist brochures: the impoverished areas that overlook the city’s wealthier neighborhoods. I could elaborate further on these communities, often called “favelas,” but my knowledge of them is limited. Historically, up until the early 20th century, visitors to cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo would find the poor living in cramped buildings known as "cortiços," scattered throughout older districts. However, mid-century brought urban renewal and gentrification, with demolition of deteriorated areas and construction of modern buildings. Displaced residents then began building homes freely on unclaimed land, creating chaotic settlements that climbed hills. This extreme poverty, a constant driver of crime, became associated with drug trafficking, illegal gambling, arms dealing, and prostitution, leading to the rise of heavily armed criminal organizations that exploited the terrain to turn these “favelas” into fortified areas where even regular police hesitate to enter. Consequently, the issue of favelas remains a serious social, urbanistic, and humanitarian problem for Brazilian cities. While I lack precise data, it’s clear there's much work to be done regarding infrastructure deficiencies, land security, and construction on unstable ground. Efforts have been made to address these issues and combat crime (as shown in the film, coinciding with Pope Benedict XVI’s visit), but their effectiveness remains questionable. Currently, Rio and São Paulo are no longer considered Brazil’s most dangerous cities, but significant improvements are needed elsewhere, such as João Pessoa, Fortaleza, Salvador, or Natal. The film follows two recruits undergoing training for an elite police unit, BOPE, prepared to handle the most challenging situations. Each has their own motivations, but they share a frustration with criminals' impunity. Captain Nascimento, overseeing the recruits, is also subtly seeking a replacement so he can retire and focus on his family and preserve what little mental stability he has left. The film presents a brutally realistic portrayal of the intense training these units receive, preparing them for the urban warfare they face. It also hints at the severity of the problem: armed criminals committing acts of violence without hesitation, and a police force capable of war. With this film, Wagner Moura has created one of his most significant works. He wasn't previously among Brazil’s most recognized actors, but I had already appreciated his talent in television roles. Seeing him here was still quite impressive. While other talented performers like André Ramiro and Caio Junqueira appear, Moura truly stands out and dominates the film. Fernanda Machado also delivers a noteworthy performance, portraying how privileged young people naively attempt to promote social justice without understanding the underlying issues. Technically, the film excels in its realism; though fictional, it feels authentic, resembling a documentary. This is evident in the frequent use of profanity and slang in the dialogue, as well as the careful selection of filming locations, including actual favelas in Rio. The action sequences are also exceptional, rivaling those found in high-budget American films with impressive special effects and sound design. It’s not suitable for children or viewers who are easily offended, but it is a very good film—one of the best Brazil has managed to export internationally.

Source on TMDB