It is easy for a filmmaker to fall into the trap of being overly preachy about the inequities of class differences when constructing movies of this type. While these are hard-hitting films inspired by true occurrences, neither should make you feel condescended to while watching them.

City of God

City Of God (2002) is a fantastic Brazilian film directed by Fernando Meirelles. Over the course of a couple of decades, City Of God follows some hoodlums as they try and stake their hierarchy in organized crime. There are some nice choices made in stylized storytelling to keep the film moving at a riveting pace.

City Of God is both shocking and violent at times, although the documentary in the extra features is somewhat more telling than the movie itself.

La Haine

La Haine (1995) (known in English as, Hate) is from the French director, Mathieu Kassovitz. He combines actual footage of riots and violence with the dramatization of young men working out their existence under chaotic circumstances. La Haine concentrates on their attitudes and interactions in a compelling way. It is shot in beautiful black and white, and it is also smartly stylized at times.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.