Underrated gem is ungodly amazing

City of God" can easily be compared to "Goodfellas," as the two share similar story arcs, but that doesn't hinder "God" from being a groundbreaking film that is unparalleled.\nTaking place in the slums of the notoriously touristy Rio de Janeiro, the movie follows countless characters, revolving mainly around protagonist Rocket (Alexandre Rodrigues), who provides the narration as he stealthily observes the action, and gang boss Li'l Ze (Leandro Firmino) as he battles for the streets of Rio with gangs of children that are sometimes as young as 8 or 9. The youth of the violent gangsters makes the film difficult to watch at times, but simultaneously intriguing. The film brilliantly constructs a plot that has a definite beginning and end, filling the middle with flashbacks, shootouts and tender character moments that make the "City of God" breathe with life. The cinematography and editing are absolutely top-notch, with plenty of fast cuts and daring movements formally creating a chaotic mood, yet never feeling forced for the sake of style.\nThe only extra on the disc is a one-hour documentary about the real City of God that is totally worth watching, as it serves as an excellent supplement to the movie.\nSnubbed by the Academy Awards, "City of God" is a daring film that any avid filmgoer must see.