The Real Favela, Characters, and Legacy

Have you ever watched a movie that left you breathless, grappling with the harsh realities of life while marveling at the brilliance of storytelling? City of God is one such cinematic gem that takes you on a riveting journey through the streets of Rio de Janeiro, exposing the raw essence of survival and the brutal consequences of a life entrenched in crime. In this Dica, we’ll explore the incredible cast of City of God, the favela that inspired its name, its iconic soundtrack, the memorable beach scenes, the spin-off series City of God: The Fight Rages On, and other related works like City of Men. Want to hear City of God come alive in conversation? Scroll down for our exclusive podcast episode filled with emotion, stories, and Portuguese language insights.

City of God: the Favela

Did you know that City of God is based on a real place? Cidade de Deus, or City of God, is a real favela, or slum, located in the western part of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was originally established in the 1960s on the outskirts of the city and experienced rapid urbanization, with makeshift housing and inadequate infrastructure. This favela iss what we call a “planned favela”. Cidade de Deus emerged as the product of the compulsory removal of 63 favelas from the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The objective was clear: remove poor citizens from these upscale neighborhoods and displace them elsewhere. That is why this favela is densely populated, a mix of low-income families struggling to make ends meet. Over the years, the population has grown significantly, leading to overcrowded living conditions. And you know what? Most of the original favelas still exist, so that first—and awful—goal of eliminating favelas from rich neighborhoods didn’t work.

City of God faces numerous social and economic challenges, including high levels of unemployment and limited access to quality education and healthcare. Poverty is widespread, and residents often grapple with the lack of basic amenities. The favela is also notorious for high levels of crime and violence, with drug trafficking and gang activity being prevalent.

But if you want to get to know a real-life favela, our RioLIVE! can take you to one! Come with us on our Santa Marta tour, where you can understand everything a favela symbolizes while you learn Portuguese!

Where is the Favela Cidade de Deus?

Cidade de Deus is a favela in Rio de Janeiro. Let’s see Cidade de Deus on a map!

City of God: the Movie

Set against the backdrop of the notorious Cidade de Deus (City of God) favela, the film skillfully weaves a narrative that spans decades, offering a gripping portrayal of the cyclical nature of violence and poverty. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, “City of God” not only captures the pulse of the Brazilian slums but also serves as a poignant commentary on the social and economic disparities that plague society.

The film introduces us to Rocket (Buscapé), a young aspiring photographer, as our guide through the tumultuous world of City of God. Through his lens, we witness the rise of ruthless gang leaders like Lil Zé (Zé Pequeno) and the unfolding stories of numerous individuals trying to navigate a world where survival often comes at a staggering cost.

But City of God is not just a crime drama; it’s a profound exploration of the choices people make when faced with limited options. It delves into the impact of systemic issues, ranging from poverty to inadequate education, that perpetuate the cycle of violence. The characters, portrayed by a talented ensemble cast of non-professional actors, breathe life into the harsh realities depicted on screen.

Let’s watch the trailer together!

If you want to watch the full City of God movie, you can stream it on Netflix.

City of God Cast

The cast of “City of God” is notable for featuring a mix of professional and non-professional actors. Many of whom were residents of the favelas themselves. The film’s director, Fernando Meirelles, and co-director, Kátia Lund, opted for a unique approach. They chose to cast individuals who could bring authenticity to the characters and the story. Here are some key members of the cast:

Alexandre Rodrigues (Rocket/Buscapé): Alexandre Rodrigues played the lead role of Rocket, the film’s narrator and protagonist. Rocket is an aspiring photographer who documents life in the City of God. Rodrigues’s performance was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.

Leandro Firmino (Lil Zé/Zé Pequeno): Leandro Firmino portrayed Lil Zé. He is the film’s antagonist and a ruthless drug lord in the City of God. Firmino’s intense and convincing performance contributed to the character’s menacing presence on screen.

Douglas Silva (young Lil Zé/Zé Pequeno): Douglas Silva‘s portrayal of the character in his formative years was crucial in establishing the roots of the character’s criminal trajectory.

Phellipe Haagensen (Benny/Bené): Phellipe plays the childhood friend of Lil Zé, who grew up with him in the world of crime. He is quite popular with everyone in Cidade de Deus because of the way he treats each resident.

Seu Jorge (Knockout Ned/Mané Galinha): Seu Jorge portrayed Knockout Ned. His character becomes entangled in the violent conflicts within the favela. Seu Jorge’s performance contributed to the film’s exploration of the impact of crime on individuals.

Alice Braga (Angélica): Alice Braga played Angélica, Benny’s love interest in the film. Braga’s performance added emotional depth to the narrative. Her character’s storyline intersected with various aspects of life in the favela.

Lil Dice and Lil Zé in Real Life to City of God Movie

In City of God movie, “Lil Dice” (Dadinho), or his grown up version “Lil Zé” (Zé Pequeno), is the most memorable character, whose violent path starts at a young age. Lil Dice, as a child, is shown as ruthless and cunning, involved in violent acts to gain power and respect in the favela. As he grows older, he becomes Lil Zé, a feared and notorious drug lord who rules with cruelty and terror, making his mark in the criminal world.

Lil Zé is actually based on a real person—José Eduardo Barreto Conceição, who was known as Zé Pequeno in the Cidade de Deus favela. He was a notorious drug trafficker during the 1970s and 1980s, and his rise to power, along with his violent rivalry with other criminals, inspired the character portrayed in the film. While the movie takes some creative liberties, it is clear that the character of Lil Zé is rooted in the real-life character of José Eduardo, who became infamous for his involvement in the drug trade and his brutal tactics.

So, while Lil Dice and Lil Zé are fictionalized versions of events, the character of Zé Pequeno does have real-life inspiration, drawn from the life of a real criminal figure in Brazil’s favelas.

City of God Beach Scene

The beach scene in City of God powerfully contrasts the violence of the favela with the calm beauty of Rio’s shores. It highlights the dream of escape many favela residents long for, yet shows how deeply rooted they are in their environment. This iconic moment is a striking reflection of social divides in Brazil. You can watch the scene here:

City of God Movie Soundtrack

The City of God soundtrack is as vibrant and gripping as the film itself, weaving together the pulse of Rio’s favelas with the raw energy of the story. It features a mix of samba, funk, and Brazilian rock, perfectly capturing the chaotic yet colorful life of the characters. Tracks like “Alvorada” and “Preciso Me Encontrar” by Cartola and Funk da Virada infuse the film with the soulful melancholy of samba, while the funk rhythms add a modern, electrifying vibe.

The music becomes a character in its own right, guiding the emotions of the audience through moments of joy, tension, and heartbreak. 🎶 Enjoy it here!

Critics and Reviews

City of God received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences upon its release in 2002. Critics praised the film’s visceral and authentic depiction of the harsh realities of life in the City of God favela. The raw and unflinching portrayal of violence, poverty, and the cycle of crime resonated with many.

The direction by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund was widely commended for its innovative and engaging approach. The film’s use of kinetic camerawork, vibrant colors, and a dynamic soundtrack helped create a unique cinematic experience. Alexandre Rodrigues, who played the protagonist Rocket, and Leandro Firmino, who portrayed the antagonist Lil Zé, received particular praise for their compelling performances.

The film’s success went beyond Brazil, garnering attention on the international stage. It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay, further solidifying its place in global cinema.

City of God: The Fight Rages On – A New Chapter, A Raw Reality

Imagine stepping back into the vibrant, chaotic, and electrifying world of Cidade de Deus—20 years later. This time, it’s not just about survival; it’s about confronting the scars of the past and the challenges of the present. City of God: The Fight Rages On picks up where the legendary 2002 film left off, pulling you back into the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s iconic favela.

Our guide through this gripping tale is Rocket, the boy who once dreamed of escape and captured life through his lens. Now, he’s back—older, wiser, and armed with his camera, ready to expose the raw truth of his former home. But things have changed. The favela’s battleground has evolved, with new alliances, rivalries, and power struggles. Drug lords, militias, police forces, and politicians weave a complex web that shapes the lives of everyone within its borders.

The series is more than just a continuation; it’s a deep dive into the resilience of a community and the unyielding fight for hope amidst chaos. You’ll meet familiar faces—Rocket, Berenice, Bradock—and new ones, each bringing their own story to the table. It’s a reunion filled with nostalgia, heartbreak, and surprises. You can see this new series on Max!

Other Series and Movies like City of God

City of Men Series (Cidade dos Homens)

City of Men (Cidade dos Homens) is like the younger sibling of City of God, bringing a fresh yet equally powerful perspective to life in Rio’s favelas. Be cautious, it is not a continuation of City of God, it is an independent story, that it is not so violent and more heart-warming. Following the lives of Acerola and Laranjinha, two best friends navigating their teenage years, the series blends humor, heart, and hard-hitting reality. It explores themes of friendship, family, and survival amidst the challenges of poverty and violence, but always with a touch of humanity that leaves you rooting for these two boys. Douglas Silva, the actor representing young Lil Dice (Dadinho) in City of God is one of the two main characters! Perfect for learning everyday Portuguese and slang, City of Men offers an authentic and emotional window into Brazilian culture, making it a must-watch for anyone eager to truly connect with the spirit of Rio. City of Men captured the hearts of millions of Brazilians!

City of Men Movie (Cidade dos Homens)

The City of Men movie takes the beloved characters Acerola and Laranjinha from the acclaimed series to a more mature and dramatic stage. Now, young adults, their friendship is tested as they face the harsh realities of fatherhood, fractured families, and the escalating gang violence in their favela. The film beautifully captures their journey of growth, responsibility, and resilience, all while maintaining the heartfelt bond that made the series so special. With its gripping narrative and raw depiction of life in Rio, the City of Men movie is a touching, thought-provoking story that deepens your understanding of Brazilian culture and the enduring spirit of friendship.

City of God: 10 Years Later

City of God: 10 Years Later (Cidade de Deus: 10 Anos Depois) is a powerful documentary that reunites the cast and crew of the iconic film City of God, a decade after its release. It delves into the profound impact the movie had on their lives, both professionally and personally, while also exploring the social realities of the communities they represented. From the breakout stars who found global fame to the lesser-known actors still navigating life’s challenges, the documentary provides a raw and emotional look at how art and reality intersect. For those fascinated by Brazilian culture and the journey of Cidade de Deus, this documentary is a heartfelt follow-up that enriches your understanding of the film’s legacy and the lives it touched.

Practice Your Portuguese with Our City of God Podcast

Reading about City of God helps you understand Rio — but listening to Portuguese is where the real magic happens. That’s why we created this podcast episode: to help you train your ear, connect with authentic Brazilian Portuguese, and experience the language exactly as it’s spoken in real life. As you listen, you’ll hear natural pronunciation, rhythm, and expressions connected to the world of City of God — all while reinforcing the vocabulary and cultural insights you’ve just learned in this post.

This episode is perfect if you want to go beyond reading and start feeling Portuguese, improving your listening skills while diving deeper into one of Rio’s most powerful stories. Put on your headphones, relax, and let Portuguese guide you through the sounds, emotions, and realities of Rio de Janeiro.

👉 Want an extra challenge? If you switch this page to the Portuguese version, you’ll find a related podcast episode recorded entirely in Portuguese — perfect for immersive listening practice and taking your comprehension to the next level. Try listening once with the text fresh in mind, then again in Portuguese only. More Just Portuguese Podcasts episodes here.

City of God FAQ

City of God, Where to Watch?

You can watch City of God on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV, depending on your region. Be sure to check your local availability, and get ready to dive into this cinematic masterpiece that captures the raw and vibrant essence of Rio’s favelas! 🌟

Is City of God a true story?

City of God is based on real events but isn’t a direct true story. It’s inspired by Paulo Lins’ novel of the same name, which draws from his experiences growing up in Rio de Janeiro’s Cidade de Deus favela. While the characters and specific events are fictionalized, they reflect the harsh realities of life in the favelas during the 1960s to 1980s, making the film a raw and authentic glimpse into Brazil’s socio-political struggles.

Where does City of God take place?

City of God takes place in the Cidade de Deus favela, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The film vividly portrays life in this community from the 1960s to the 1980s, capturing its vibrant culture, complex social dynamics, and the harsh realities of poverty and crime. It’s a setting that feels alive, making it a key character in the story itself!

Where is the City of God?

The City of God (Cidade de Deus) is a real favela located in the western zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was originally built in the 1960s as a housing project to relocate families from other favelas to eliminate these places, but it soon became a densely populated and vibrant favela itself!

Where to watch City of God: The Fight Rages On?

You can watch City of God: The Fight Rages On on Max (formerly HBO Max), where it’s available for streaming. This gripping series continues the story of the iconic film, offering a deeper dive into the lives of the Cidade de Deus community 20 years later. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this powerful follow-up!

Is City of God a good movie?

Absolutely! City of God is widely regarded as one of the best films of all time. With its gripping storytelling, incredible performances, and stunning cinematography, it delivers a raw and unforgettable portrayal of life in Rio’s favelas. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in powerful cinema, Brazilian culture, or learning Portuguese through an emotional and immersive experience. 🌟

Do you know other Brazilian Cinema gems? In the end, City of God stands as a testament to the power of cinema to illuminate the darkest corners of society and provoke meaningful discussions. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives. Also for those who enjoy powerful performances and a visual and auditory experience that leaves a lasting impact. Step into the chaotic and dangerous world of City of God! And you might just find yourself contemplating the complexities of life long after the credits roll!
Tell us in the comments, did you see the new City of God series? See you soon!

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