Monday, September 1, 2014

Bus 174 (2002)

Director(s): José Padilha, Felipe Lacerda. 122 min. Rated R. Brazil. Documentary.

Another example of movies showing glimpses into lives in other countries, that would be impossible to see in a lifetime. In the wake of all the Brazilian World Cup glamour, here's the story of a man whose mother was slashed to death before his eyes as a kid, grew up in the streets, was incarcerated several times in Rio's hellholes, and ended up taking hostages on a bus in an infamous 2002 event that was televised live. The documentary analyzes how the system breeds these criminals, and how the public supports the eradication of these "invisibles" ... by merely killing them.

Unforgettable quote:

"A nation's true identity is revealed in a hostage situation."

PS: 99% on the Tomatometer. Your call.

Mo says:

3 comments:

  1. A truly shocking and depressing documentary but one all should see. I sometimes forget what a cosy life I have always had, it's important for us to glimpse if only for a moment the sheer hell that those who live in abject poverty have to deal with.

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    1. Toast, I guess you're the guru of documentaries! You've seen all the great documentaries out there. Completely agree with your analysis. I still need to set some time aside to watch your recommendation, "Art of Conflict."

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  2. "Art of Conflict" is a good one for sure.

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