4 stars (R)
Brazilian film focusing on a few eventful days in the lives of two best pals that grew up in a poor, violent part of Rio. The story, about sons and fathers, immediate gratification and responsibility, friendship and the stark realities of life, is rich, involving and satisfying. The film is a big-screen adaptation of the TV series inspired by the brilliant film "City of God," but the movie stands on its own. Highly recommended. 105 minutes. DVD INFO: Includes a featurette.