City of God = Key Themes

Question 1

Social Inequality =

Answer 1

• It is a prominent and important theme which influences their lives. The film is set where there is an extreme poverty and limited opportunities which creates a harsh environment for residents
• There is geographical segregation between the rich and the poor, the residents of the favela are isolated and marginalised from the wealthier neighbourhoods on the outskirts of society
• They are neglected by the government who does little to improve the conditions in the slum which allows the gangs to take control
• The result of this is violence which is fuelled by the lack of economic opportunities and failure of the state
• They become desensitised to the violence as it becomes a regular part of their lives
• It is also shown in the corruption of law enforcement who are complicit in the violence and highlights the systemic corruption
• Crime is seen as survival in the favela’s, many of the residents are forced as a way to survive which shows how gangs become a viable economic alternative rather than working in the formal economy

Question 2

Violence =

Answer 2

• The violence is a destructive cycle and the inability to escape is shown in rival gangs, brutal drug dealers and police corruption
• The violence is a part of their normal life, they are confronted by the harsh reality of the favelas and how many people see violence as an inevitable part of their survival

Question 3

Power =

Answer 3

• The film explores how power is acquired and maintained through violence and manipulation seen though Lil Ze
• The police are depicted as actively participating in the exploitation and violence. - The characters are only able to achieve power through harm
• The police are directly involved with the criminals taking bribes and participating in illegal activities which blurs the lines of law enforcement and criminals
• The police exploit their position for their own personal gain. They are an extension of the violent oppressive system

Question 4

Hope =

Answer 4

• The film also introduces elements of hope and the desire to leave and become successful. However the only way to escape the violence is through success of the middle class means
• Many people are doomed by their choices and therefore can never leave the favela