Exploration of films and how they reflect the way we communicate and process meaning. Often we find cultures are at odds with ideological social structures which often can create many of the global issues explored in this class. We will deal primarily with films as they present multiple layers of the communication process, texts, video, and credible media sources.
Monday, July 29, 2024
POST 5 - "City of God" (2002) Post-Colonial Issues/The Cycle of Poverty DUE: Feb 23
READ:
Bridging the GapsChap. 7: "Symbolic Interaction, Structuration & Convergence"
READ THIS CHAPTER CAREFULLY
WATCH THE FILM: "City of God" (2002)
This film adaptation is based on a biography. A second film was released in 2024. .
QUESTIONS:
Be sure to pick a particular scene or single image from the film to illustrate your point, include the film time sequence for each question.
Dig deeper into the director's artistic POV (how the scene was created or edited to enhance the film narrative).Use film language. This Post is focussed on global comm narrative theories.
Q1. Symbolic Interaction - Give only one example of an individual who caught your attention. Use one scene or shot to define what drew you in and what they symbolized. Include the (film time:stamp).
Q2. Structuration - Per this theory, choose only one "societal norm" from this film regarding community or story from the film, and provide the scene example with a (film time:stamp).
Q3. Symbolic convergence theory -Briefly address only one aspect (below) of storytelling that was used as a persuasive tactic to illustrate the cycle of poverty. Be sure to reply per the specific ideological context of only ONE of the three options:
1 --moral tale or
2--righteous analogue
3 --social analogue. . . . as presented in this film with a film (time:stamp).
Examples vary from a single image to the overall film. There are certain stories you should recognize from your life lessons via family or school.
Q1. Symbolic Interaction: Li'l Zé (2:30-3:00) caught my attention as a symbol of unchecked ambition and violence. In the scene where he's introduced as a child, his gleeful expression while holding a gun symbolizes the loss of innocence and the allure of power in the favela. This moment foreshadows his transformation into a ruthless gang leader, representing how the environment shapes individuals into products of their circumstances.
Q2. Structuration: A societal norm depicted in the film is the prevalence of gang violence as a means of survival and power (10:00-15:00). This scene showcases the brutal power struggles between gangs, highlighting how violence has become an accepted way of life in the favela. The film illustrates how this norm is perpetuated through generations, with younger children like the "Runts" adopting increasingly violent behavior.
Q3. Symbolic convergence theory: The film uses a moral tale to illustrate the cycle of poverty through Rocket's journey (15:00-20:00). As Rocket faces internal conflict between loyalty to his community and his desire to escape through photography, the film presents a moral dilemma. This storytelling approach persuades viewers to consider the limited options available to favela residents and the difficult choices they must make to break free from the cycle of poverty and violence.
Q1: (00:05:18) It shows Shaggy of the trio playing with a soccer ball for fun showing his inner child before quickly shooting his gun and robbing a truck. This symbolizes that even the young gangsters still have some innder child left inside them.
Q2: Individuals act within the corrupt system. Numerous time the police get involved the pocket the money even stealing the money rocket made selling fish. This scene happens at (00:28:50)
Q3: Righteous analogue - (01:31:58) Knockout Ned's transformation takes place from someone who was good to become a ruthless killer which started from revenge of the death of his family. He abandons his moral code and falls into a life of crime.
Q1- One individual who stands out in “City of God” is Rocket, symbolizing the potential to escape the cycle of poverty and violence. A key scene occurs at 1:34:00, where Rocket is seen standing on a rooftop, gazing out at the city. The camera zooms in on his face, capturing a moment of realization and determination. This shot symbolizes Rocket’s decision to pursue a career in photography, despite the tempting allure of joining the violent gangs around him. The rooftop represents Rocket rising above the chaos of the favela, choosing a path of self-expression and hope amidst the despair. His choice highlights the possibility of individual agency and success, even in the most oppressive environments.
Q2- A key example of the societal norm of violence in City of God occurs at film time: 0:36:00, when Li'l Zé (Leandro Firmino) takes control of the favela’s drug trade by killing a rival gang member in front of others. This brutal act not only establishes his dominance but also reinforces the idea that violence is a necessary tool for survival and power in the favela. It signals to the community that such violence is an accepted method of achieving respect and control, perpetuating a cycle of fear and criminal behavior. This moment exemplifies how violence becomes both a response to and a reinforcement of the oppressive conditions in the favela.
Q3- In City of God, the use of a moral tale illustrates the cycle of poverty through the character of Rocket. He represents the potential for change, but the film also highlights the consequences of his choices within a violent, poverty-stricken environment. A key scene at film time: 1:42:00 shows Rocket narrowly avoiding death during a gang shootout, forcing him to confront the brutal reality of his situation. This moment reinforces the moral lesson that the cycle of violence and poverty in the favela is inescapable unless one actively chooses to break free. The film uses this storytelling technique to emphasize the impact of choices in an oppressive system and the struggle to rise above it.
Q1. Symbolic Interaction At (10:59) and again at (41:08) Both scenes show Lil Ze(Lil Dice) coming up with the motel plan and shows the audience his evil side killing for the sake of killing.
Q2. Structuration – The social norm here is violence will get you power and respect. This is shown through the movie no more so then at (56:24, 56:53, and again 57:56). At each of these times Angelia shows Benny more and more attention because of who he is and his status in the community.
Q3. Symbolic convergence theory – 2--righteous analogue the “Flirting with Crime” montage. Here is a great example of Rocket being a Righteous individual. At (1:05:30) not robbing the bus cashier, again at (1:07:00) by not robbing the bakery, and finally at (1:07:15) by not robbing the guy asking for directions. In all these scenes he shows himself taking the righteous path for one reason or another.
Q1 (1:56:37-1:57:40) It was surprising that Otto, a minor character, is the one to kill Ned because his dad was one of Ned’s first innocents he killed and he wanted revenge. Otto can symbolize how past actions, indirect or direct, can come back to affect you; Ned went deeper into hoodlum, that his choice of killing an innocent led a stranger to enact revenge for what he did.
Q2 ( 48:07-48:40) It’s not strange to see young boys start working for these gangs as Rocket talks about how kids can join the hoodlum starting by running errands, to dealers, and soldiers. This establishes how common it is for kids to join these gangs, they treat it as any other potential career where you start from the bottom and work your way up, but it normalizes the violence and drugs that come with that life.
Q3 The Social Analogue- (1:36:36-1:37:52) The gang war breaks out between Carrot and Li’l Z many volunteers because they don’t like someone in the other gang and that’s all it takes to get a gun. The storytelling persuades us to think about the reasoning someone would join a gang. It shows how these boys are willing to become a part of a gang that kills and sells drugs so they can feel like they are a part of something bigger already stuck in poverty.
Q1. I was intrigued when Rocket was attempting to catch the loose chicken but was stuck between two worlds; the cops show up, with they and their cars being on one side, and the gang on the other. His facial expressions of fear, the camera angles and zoom, and the sounds becoming more and more ‘blurred,’ all caught my attention. Symbolic interaction shows that Rocket is trapped with the camera whirling around him to show all sides. We see that it is not just a symbolic shot and situation, but he truly is trapped between a life of virtue and a good, safe life, and the life he is trying to escape from. (00:4:02)
Q2. There is a group of kids that rob one of the newer business owners. They take all of the merchandise as the very small, fast children grab things and run. There is one child in particular that the camera continues to go back to and focus on. He cannot be older the five years of age, and he has a cheeky smile on his face as he helps commit the crime. Structuration is shown in that robbery and crime are a societal norm- even from the time these children are 4 or 5 years old. Their own life’s opportunity is so diminished that this is the only way for them to have money and provisions (00:58:25).
Q3. Though it may be in a twisted and confusing way, righteous analogue is shown when we see the boys’ intentions in their life of crime. Though they are doing terrible things, it is for the provision of their families and so they can escape the lifestyle they are trapped in. With the way and place in which they have been raised, they probably do not know what good truly even is. Additionally, through these moments of their talking through why they are doing these things, the viewer is drawn more and more onto their side with an understanding of their reasoning; persuasion is successful. (00:08:11 and 00:10:17)
Q1. (1:18:44) Benny represents the possibility of escaping the cycle of violence. He was charismatic, well-liked, and wanted a better life outside of crime. His death symbolizes how those with good intentions still can’t easily escape the City of God. In this world, peace is fragile, and violence consumes everyone.
Q2. (1:29:59) One of the kids proudly says “A kid? I smoke, snort, I’ve killed, I’ve robbed, I’m a man” This moment illustrates how crime is normalized for children. Violence isn’t just a survival mechanism- it is an expectation. The older gangsters reinforce this norm by involving kids in criminal activity, then the cycle continues for future generations.
Q3. (1:36:02) Social analog was divided between Li’l Ze’s and Carrot’s gangs. Everyone is forced to pick a side, with no neutral ground. It mirrors real-world social and political conflicts where individuals are forced into fractions. The community is no longer just about survival, it’s about allegiance. Those who try to remain neutral risk being seen as enemies by both sides. This demonstrated how systemic violence traps people in cycles of crime, as they have no choice but to participate in a war that’s not theirs.
Q1. Knockout Ned caught my attention because for so long he was just trying to do right for himself and his family. Then Lil’ Z rapes his girlfriend and shoots and kills his brother and uncle. After that Knockout Ned joined Carrots gang and became second in charge. He tried to tell Carrot that they weren’t going to kill people, but that did not last long. (Knockout Ned is first seen at Benny’s Party 1:15:20)
Q2. The social norm of kids being introduced to violence at a young age. For example, when Lil’ Z made Steak & Fries shoot one of the runts as an initiation into the gang. The introduction of violence and gang life at a young age had become normal. (1:01:32-1:02:28)
Q3. Moral tale: Lil’ Z’s path of embracing crime and eventually ending in death was inevitable due to him being around the violence and crime at a young age. He believed being a crime boss was success, and we see that when he wanted his name and picture in the newspapers. (1:40:20)
Q1. (33:17) In this scene Rocket tells his friends they should go to the beach. His friends disagree because they must go to school. Only after he tells them that the weather is good and everyone else is going, do they decide to go. The director communicates the symbolic interaction by framing a group shot. The characters are placed in school uniforms for context. Q2. (54:30) In this scene Benny changes his appearance so that it goes against his group’s norm. When Benny’s friends see his new appearance for the first time, they are surprised and make fun of him. The director communicates the structuration theory by showing a montage of shots that are accompanied by music; the flow is suddenly interrupted by silence when Benny’s friends see his new appearance. Q3. (42:26) This is an example of social analogue. In this scene Rocket’s tells the story of Lil Dice’s desire to become a leader. This explains why Lil Dice takes over Blacky’s business. The director used editing to link together shots of Lil Dice’s story. The story helps the viewer understand the reason behind Lil Dice’s action and anticipate future ones.
Q1. (8:00) After the trio went to rob and give away free gas from the gas truck they go hide between the kids playing soccer in the field where they were first introduced as the biggest threat in town. When Goose goes back he gives some of the money to his little brother and tells him to take it back to their father but to not tell him its from him. This caught my attention from the character because even though the flashback memory of the trio being violent and involved with serious wrong doings it still shows that Goose and them have some sense of feelings and caring towards the ones that they love. Q2. (11:08) In this scene while smoking they are setting the norm of consuming drugs and talking about how they rob gas trucks every day which eventually gets them by with money. Since that is not enough for them they want to go after a bigger target with more money. Li'l Dice suggests his plan but gets shut down or laughed at all the time In this scene and the next one which is them outside of the hotel symbolizing that even though he is still part of the plan and does everything with them they set boundaries because he is still a kid. Q3. (28:58) Moral tale after Goose sleeps with Shorty's wife and promises he will stop messing around with what could potentially harm others and himself, he ends up running away from the police after Shorty hits and buries his wife. This sends on the message that consequences eventually catch up towards the ones who want to get away or change their lifestyle if they do not apply the proper care towards their morals and actions in the future. It is difficult for them to run away from the same problems if they do not have or are stuck in poverty with an unjust system.
Author: Jaylen Galvan Q1. (10:20) Here we get the first instance of Lil Dice feeling uncomfortable with people underestimating him because of his age. The shot of the camera zoomed in on him drew me in because I've felt that feeling of being mocked before. For Lil Dice however, this symbolized the beginning of his thirst for power.
Q2. (58:30) The shop owner comes to Lil Z for protection from the Runts who were robbing citizens in the ghetto. This is seen as socially acceptable for the citizens, for Lil Z’s gang are the ones that protect the neighborhood so they can continue to sell drugs.
Q3. (17:00) After the kids rob the brothel and are hiding in the trees, Clipper has a vivid moral epiphany of a little fish being violently swallowed by a big fish which sends fear into him. He later says he’s getting out because he doesn’t want to die and is going back to church.
Jayden Thompson Q1) At (6:13) the Tender Trio robbing a man driving in a truck shows the extents that these kids had to go to because of their living situations. And this incident really sets the tone for the rest of the movie and shows how intense their lives are. Q2) (9:56) The kids are discussing how the truck that they robbed didn’t have much but that they will make up for it by just robbing more trucks the next day, and even robbing some rich guy’s house because that’s the only way to get out of their poverty situation. This shows their societal norm being that robbing people and breaking laws is the only way to get out of their terrible situation. Q3) (55:22) Moral tale is shown here when there is a conversation about wanting to kill someone for “endangering the ghetto”. These kids struggle morally due to their upbringings. Almost as if they don’t understand that taking a life is permanent because all they’ve known is that getting rid of someone in their way does nothing but benefit them especially when they have no consequences for these actions.
1. Around 01:00:00–01:03:00 in , Lil Zé’s most disturbing display of power is when he forces a young boy in his gang to shoot two “runts.” This moment stands out because Lil Zé, already the embodiment of fear and control, solidifies his authority through a ruthless initiation, compelling a child to enact violence. The child’s hesitation and eventual submission reveal the harsh reality of the favela, where survival often hinges on brutal acts. Essentially, this scene captures the tragic loss of innocence and underscores how violence is perpetuated across generations. The interaction serves as a powerful symbol of how quickly fear and the need for acceptance strip away morality. Lil Zé’s actions reflect a broader social critique, showing that in this environment, violence is not just a way of life—it’s a twisted form of currency that ensures one’s position and status.
2. One societal norm powerfully depicted is the expectation of vengeance as a moral obligation, particularly when institutional avenues of justice are unavailable or ineffective. Around the 1:26:00–1:31:00 mark, we witness Knockout Ned’s turn to violence after Li’l Zé rapes his girlfriend and murders a family member. This moment illustrates how social structures not only guide individual behavior but also get reinforced by it a core idea from Structuration Theory. Although Ned initially stands out for his peaceful demeanor, he comes to believe that retaliating is the only way to resolve all the chaos he had just experienced in a world where the police are corrupt and community support is scarce. By arming himself and joining forces with rival gangster Carrot, Ned essentially reaffirms and reproduces the cycle he once hoped to avoid. From a Structuration Theory perspective, Ned’s actions reveal how personal choices are molded by the social environment and, in turn, perpetuate existing norms. Each act of revenge is both a result of the community’s expectation to fight back and a factor that keeps this vicious cycle of violence alive.
3. A striking moral tale moment occurs near the end of City of God (2002), at around [02:00:00 - 02:02:00]. Having risen to the top of the favela’s criminal hierarchy through relentless brutality, Li’l Zé is unexpectedly gunned down by the Runts he once tormented and belittled. In a deeply ironic twist, the weapon Li’l Zé used to enforce his power becomes the very tool these young kids use to take him out. This scene is framed as a cautionary moral narrative: "violence begets violence" and the cycle of poverty ensures that each new generation is primed to repeat the destructive patterns of the one before. The final shot of the Runts compiling a hit list underscores that, in their environment, the line between victim and perpetrator is razor-thin, an individual’s downfall often arises from the same brutal tactics they once used to dominate. As a persuasive tactic, this moral tale confronts the viewer with the harsh reality that a lawless context, fueled by poverty and the absence of social structures, can corrupt even the young. the film closes on the idea that in the absence of opportunity and justice, the cycle of violence endures and no one, not even the most feared criminal, is safe from its grip.
Q1: At 1:14:50, Angelica catches my attention because of the way she patiently waits for Benny while he is arguing with Li’l Ze on how she is viewed and what she means. She portrays a new beginning and a way to escape for Benny. Q2: At 1:31:21, Carrot is explaining to Rocket how he needs to get back at the other gang for everything that has wrongfully been done to him. It is very common within society to want to “get back” at people who have done us wrong. Q3: At 1:29:40, there are about 20 people in one house in which it is really dirty and there is no sort of light system, just from the sun shining through the windows. The cycle of poverty can be seen because of the age of the house and how many people are crammed into one small area.
Q1. (00:15:58) Shorty caught my attention by how quick he was to call the cops and let them know where the kids had gone and hide to. Although he is involved in violent drug trades, he is aware of the power and protection that the police can offer in certain situations. This shows the symbolization of corruption of crime and authority in the film.
Q2. (01:29:17) The loyalty and brother hood in gangs that is known through the community. The norm with the criminal structures is that loyalty to a gang or leader is essential for survival. Even within this criminal setting, there are individuals who exhibit personal codes of ethics, loyalty to friends and stick to principles.
Q3. (00:58:16 – 01:04:36) Righteous Analogue- He begins to narrate his journey. He talk about how the children start to rob. He is narrating what he as a child had to do and what Little Z is now doing to “protect the city.” Later he talk about himself, and narrates what he does compared to “Little Z,” which is working at a store to buy himself a camera. This camera to start his career. We can see the cycle of poverty because of what the children are going through and the struggles that he had to overcome due to being somone from the City of God.
Q1. At (00:51), Tiago catches my attention as he is seen trading in stolen valuables from his wealthy family to get substances from the gangs. His discomfort in the slum environment—despite coming from a background many in the hood dream of escaping—shows a deliberate choice to reject his privileged upbringing. This scene illustrates symbolic interactionism by demonstrating how Tiago’s actions and internal conflict redefine his identity, aligning him with the gritty reality of the favela.
Q2. At (01:04), Rocket faces trouble at his supermarket job when his association with the local kid gang leads to him being denied his wage and ultimately losing his job. The manager’s refusal to pay him underscores a societal norm that categorizes individuals based on their background. This scene reflects structuration theory by showing how deep-rooted social structures and expectations keep people confined to their social class, no matter how hard they try to move up at times.
Q3. At (02:01), Lil Z is shown murdered by the kids of the slums gang. After being a powerful gang leader who had built a strong following by arming his crew and even bribing the police to protect him, he ultimately gets killed by the very youth he once commanded. This scene serves as a moral tale by warning that no one is ever truly protected when they choose a life of violence and crime. Even the most powerful fall, showing that such a path leads only to inevitable downfall just as all of the other “big fish” had as well.
All those who posted got full credit. I'm still seeing minor errors: GSP typos and a "title' error. If you keep it brief, please make sure you give me a complete sentence. Other than that, you guys really nailed this assignment!
There will be some late posts and then I'll tell you how this award-winning director amplified the message: Cyle of Poverty.
17 comments:
Q1. Symbolic Interaction: Li'l Zé (2:30-3:00) caught my attention as a symbol of unchecked ambition and violence. In the scene where he's introduced as a child, his gleeful expression while holding a gun symbolizes the loss of innocence and the allure of power in the favela. This moment foreshadows his transformation into a ruthless gang leader, representing how the environment shapes individuals into products of their circumstances.
Q2. Structuration: A societal norm depicted in the film is the prevalence of gang violence as a means of survival and power (10:00-15:00). This scene showcases the brutal power struggles between gangs, highlighting how violence has become an accepted way of life in the favela. The film illustrates how this norm is perpetuated through generations, with younger children like the "Runts" adopting increasingly violent behavior.
Q3. Symbolic convergence theory: The film uses a moral tale to illustrate the cycle of poverty through Rocket's journey (15:00-20:00). As Rocket faces internal conflict between loyalty to his community and his desire to escape through photography, the film presents a moral dilemma. This storytelling approach persuades viewers to consider the limited options available to favela residents and the difficult choices they must make to break free from the cycle of poverty and violence.
Cody Menzies
Q1: (00:05:18) It shows Shaggy of the trio playing with a soccer ball for fun showing his inner child before quickly shooting his gun and robbing a truck. This symbolizes that even the young gangsters still have some innder child left inside them.
Q2: Individuals act within the corrupt system. Numerous time the police get involved the pocket the money even stealing the money rocket made selling fish. This scene happens at (00:28:50)
Q3: Righteous analogue - (01:31:58) Knockout Ned's transformation takes place from someone who was good to become a ruthless killer which started from revenge of the death of his family. He abandons his moral code and falls into a life of crime.
Q1- One individual who stands out in “City of God” is Rocket, symbolizing the potential to escape the cycle of poverty and violence. A key scene occurs at 1:34:00, where Rocket is seen standing on a rooftop, gazing out at the city. The camera zooms in on his face, capturing a moment of realization and determination. This shot symbolizes Rocket’s decision to pursue a career in photography, despite the tempting allure of joining the violent gangs around him. The rooftop represents Rocket rising above the chaos of the favela, choosing a path of self-expression and hope amidst the despair. His choice highlights the possibility of individual agency and success, even in the most oppressive environments.
Q2- A key example of the societal norm of violence in City of God occurs at film time: 0:36:00, when Li'l Zé (Leandro Firmino) takes control of the favela’s drug trade by killing a rival gang member in front of others. This brutal act not only establishes his dominance but also reinforces the idea that violence is a necessary tool for survival and power in the favela. It signals to the community that such violence is an accepted method of achieving respect and control, perpetuating a cycle of fear and criminal behavior. This moment exemplifies how violence becomes both a response to and a reinforcement of the oppressive conditions in the favela.
Q3- In City of God, the use of a moral tale illustrates the cycle of poverty through the character of Rocket. He represents the potential for change, but the film also highlights the consequences of his choices within a violent, poverty-stricken environment. A key scene at film time: 1:42:00 shows Rocket narrowly avoiding death during a gang shootout, forcing him to confront the brutal reality of his situation. This moment reinforces the moral lesson that the cycle of violence and poverty in the favela is inescapable unless one actively chooses to break free. The film uses this storytelling technique to emphasize the impact of choices in an oppressive system and the struggle to rise above it.
City of God
Q1. Symbolic Interaction At (10:59) and again at (41:08) Both scenes show Lil Ze(Lil Dice) coming up with the motel plan and shows the audience his evil side killing for the sake of killing.
Q2. Structuration – The social norm here is violence will get you power and respect. This is shown through the movie no more so then at (56:24, 56:53, and again 57:56). At each of these times Angelia shows Benny more and more attention because of who he is and his status in the community.
Q3. Symbolic convergence theory –
2--righteous analogue the “Flirting with Crime” montage. Here is a great example of Rocket being a Righteous individual. At (1:05:30) not robbing the bus cashier, again at (1:07:00) by not robbing the bakery, and finally at (1:07:15) by not robbing the guy asking for directions. In all these scenes he shows himself taking the righteous path for one reason or another.
Q1 (1:56:37-1:57:40) It was surprising that Otto, a minor character, is the one to kill Ned because his dad was one of Ned’s first innocents he killed and he wanted revenge. Otto can symbolize how past actions, indirect or direct, can come back to affect you; Ned went deeper into hoodlum, that his choice of killing an innocent led a stranger to enact revenge for what he did.
Q2 ( 48:07-48:40) It’s not strange to see young boys start working for these gangs as Rocket talks about how kids can join the hoodlum starting by running errands, to dealers, and soldiers. This establishes how common it is for kids to join these gangs, they treat it as any other potential career where you start from the bottom and work your way up, but it normalizes the violence and drugs that come with that life.
Q3 The Social Analogue- (1:36:36-1:37:52) The gang war breaks out between Carrot and Li’l Z many volunteers because they don’t like someone in the other gang and that’s all it takes to get a gun. The storytelling persuades us to think about the reasoning someone would join a gang. It shows how these boys are willing to become a part of a gang that kills and sells drugs so they can feel like they are a part of something bigger already stuck in poverty.
Caroline Lipscomb
Q1. I was intrigued when Rocket was attempting to catch the loose chicken but was stuck between two worlds; the cops show up, with they and their cars being on one side, and the gang on the other. His facial expressions of fear, the camera angles and zoom, and the sounds becoming more and more ‘blurred,’ all caught my attention. Symbolic interaction shows that Rocket is trapped with the camera whirling around him to show all sides. We see that it is not just a symbolic shot and situation, but he truly is trapped between a life of virtue and a good, safe life, and the life he is trying to escape from. (00:4:02)
Q2. There is a group of kids that rob one of the newer business owners. They take all of the merchandise as the very small, fast children grab things and run. There is one child in particular that the camera continues to go back to and focus on. He cannot be older the five years of age, and he has a cheeky smile on his face as he helps commit the crime. Structuration is shown in that robbery and crime are a societal norm- even from the time these children are 4 or 5 years old. Their own life’s opportunity is so diminished that this is the only way for them to have money and provisions (00:58:25).
Q3. Though it may be in a twisted and confusing way, righteous analogue is shown when we see the boys’ intentions in their life of crime. Though they are doing terrible things, it is for the provision of their families and so they can escape the lifestyle they are trapped in. With the way and place in which they have been raised, they probably do not know what good truly even is. Additionally, through these moments of their talking through why they are doing these things, the viewer is drawn more and more onto their side with an understanding of their reasoning; persuasion is successful. (00:08:11 and 00:10:17)
Q1. (1:18:44) Benny represents the possibility of escaping the cycle of violence. He was charismatic, well-liked, and wanted a better life outside of crime. His death symbolizes how those with good intentions still can’t easily escape the City of God. In this world, peace is fragile, and violence consumes everyone.
Q2. (1:29:59) One of the kids proudly says “A kid? I smoke, snort, I’ve killed, I’ve robbed, I’m a man” This moment illustrates how crime is normalized for children. Violence isn’t just a survival mechanism- it is an expectation. The older gangsters reinforce this norm by involving kids in criminal activity, then the cycle continues for future generations.
Q3. (1:36:02) Social analog was divided between Li’l Ze’s and Carrot’s gangs. Everyone is forced to pick a side, with no neutral ground. It mirrors real-world social and political conflicts where individuals are forced into fractions. The community is no longer just about survival, it’s about allegiance. Those who try to remain neutral risk being seen as enemies by both sides. This demonstrated how systemic violence traps people in cycles of crime, as they have no choice but to participate in a war that’s not theirs.
Q1. Knockout Ned caught my attention because for so long he was just trying to do right for himself and his family. Then Lil’ Z rapes his girlfriend and shoots and kills his brother and uncle. After that Knockout Ned joined Carrots gang and became second in charge. He tried to tell Carrot that they weren’t going to kill people, but that did not last long. (Knockout Ned is first seen at Benny’s Party 1:15:20)
Q2. The social norm of kids being introduced to violence at a young age. For example, when Lil’ Z made Steak & Fries shoot one of the runts as an initiation into the gang. The introduction of violence and gang life at a young age had become normal. (1:01:32-1:02:28)
Q3. Moral tale: Lil’ Z’s path of embracing crime and eventually ending in death was inevitable due to him being around the violence and crime at a young age. He believed being a crime boss was success, and we see that when he wanted his name and picture in the newspapers. (1:40:20)
Q1. (33:17) In this scene Rocket tells his friends they should go to the beach. His friends disagree because they must go to school. Only after he tells them that the weather is good and everyone else is going, do they decide to go.
The director communicates the symbolic interaction by framing a group shot. The characters are placed in school uniforms for context.
Q2. (54:30) In this scene Benny changes his appearance so that it goes against his group’s norm. When Benny’s friends see his new appearance for the first time, they are surprised and make fun of him.
The director communicates the structuration theory by showing a montage of shots that are accompanied by music; the flow is suddenly interrupted by silence when Benny’s friends see his new appearance.
Q3. (42:26) This is an example of social analogue. In this scene Rocket’s tells the story of Lil Dice’s desire to become a leader. This explains why Lil Dice takes over Blacky’s business.
The director used editing to link together shots of Lil Dice’s story. The story helps the viewer understand the reason behind Lil Dice’s action and anticipate future ones.
Q1. (8:00) After the trio went to rob and give away free gas from the gas truck they go hide between the kids playing soccer in the field where they were first introduced as the biggest threat in town. When Goose goes back he gives some of the money to his little brother and tells him to take it back to their father but to not tell him its from him. This caught my attention from the character because even though the flashback memory of the trio being violent and involved with serious wrong doings it still shows that Goose and them have some sense of feelings and caring towards the ones that they love.
Q2. (11:08) In this scene while smoking they are setting the norm of consuming drugs and talking about how they rob gas trucks every day which eventually gets them by with money. Since that is not enough for them they want to go after a bigger target with more money. Li'l Dice suggests his plan but gets shut down or laughed at all the time In this scene and the next one which is them outside of the hotel symbolizing that even though he is still part of the plan and does everything with them they set boundaries because he is still a kid.
Q3. (28:58) Moral tale after Goose sleeps with Shorty's wife and promises he will stop messing around with what could potentially harm others and himself, he ends up running away from the police after Shorty hits and buries his wife. This sends on the message that consequences eventually catch up towards the ones who want to get away or change their lifestyle if they do not apply the proper care towards their morals and actions in the future. It is difficult for them to run away from the same problems if they do not have or are stuck in poverty with an unjust system.
Author: Jaylen Galvan
Q1. (10:20) Here we get the first instance of Lil Dice feeling uncomfortable with people underestimating him because of his age. The shot of the camera zoomed in on him drew me in because I've felt that feeling of being mocked before. For Lil Dice however, this symbolized the beginning of his thirst for power.
Q2. (58:30) The shop owner comes to Lil Z for protection from the Runts who were robbing citizens in the ghetto. This is seen as socially acceptable for the citizens, for Lil Z’s gang are the ones that protect the neighborhood so they can continue to sell drugs.
Q3. (17:00) After the kids rob the brothel and are hiding in the trees, Clipper has a vivid moral epiphany of a little fish being violently swallowed by a big fish which sends fear into him. He later says he’s getting out because he doesn’t want to die and is going back to church.
Jayden Thompson
Q1) At (6:13) the Tender Trio robbing a man driving in a truck shows the extents that these kids had to go to because of their living situations. And this incident really sets the tone for the rest of the movie and shows how intense their lives are.
Q2) (9:56) The kids are discussing how the truck that they robbed didn’t have much but that they will make up for it by just robbing more trucks the next day, and even robbing some rich guy’s house because that’s the only way to get out of their poverty situation. This shows their societal norm being that robbing people and breaking laws is the only way to get out of their terrible situation.
Q3) (55:22) Moral tale is shown here when there is a conversation about wanting to kill someone for “endangering the ghetto”. These kids struggle morally due to their upbringings. Almost as if they don’t understand that taking a life is permanent because all they’ve known is that getting rid of someone in their way does nothing but benefit them especially when they have no consequences for these actions.
1. Around 01:00:00–01:03:00 in , Lil Zé’s most disturbing display of power is when he forces a young boy in his gang to shoot two “runts.” This moment stands out because Lil Zé, already the embodiment of fear and control, solidifies his authority through a ruthless initiation, compelling a child to enact violence. The child’s hesitation and eventual submission reveal the harsh reality of the favela, where survival often hinges on brutal acts. Essentially, this scene captures the tragic loss of innocence and underscores how violence is perpetuated across generations. The interaction serves as a powerful symbol of how quickly fear and the need for acceptance strip away morality. Lil Zé’s actions reflect a broader social critique, showing that in this environment, violence is not just a way of life—it’s a twisted form of currency that ensures one’s position and status.
2. One societal norm powerfully depicted is the expectation of vengeance as a moral obligation, particularly when institutional avenues of justice are unavailable or ineffective. Around the 1:26:00–1:31:00 mark, we witness Knockout Ned’s turn to violence after Li’l Zé rapes his girlfriend and murders a family member. This moment illustrates how social structures not only guide individual behavior but also get reinforced by it a core idea from Structuration Theory. Although Ned initially stands out for his peaceful demeanor, he comes to believe that retaliating is the only way to resolve all the chaos he had just experienced in a world where the police are corrupt and community support is scarce. By arming himself and joining forces with rival gangster Carrot, Ned essentially reaffirms and reproduces the cycle he once hoped to avoid. From a Structuration Theory perspective, Ned’s actions reveal how personal choices are molded by the social environment and, in turn, perpetuate existing norms. Each act of revenge is both a result of the community’s expectation to fight back and a factor that keeps this vicious cycle of violence alive.
3. A striking moral tale moment occurs near the end of City of God (2002), at around [02:00:00 - 02:02:00]. Having risen to the top of the favela’s criminal hierarchy through relentless brutality, Li’l Zé is unexpectedly gunned down by the Runts he once tormented and belittled. In a deeply ironic twist, the weapon Li’l Zé used to enforce his power becomes the very tool these young kids use to take him out. This scene is framed as a cautionary moral narrative: "violence begets violence" and the cycle of poverty ensures that each new generation is primed to repeat the destructive patterns of the one before. The final shot of the Runts compiling a hit list underscores that, in their environment, the line between victim and perpetrator is razor-thin, an individual’s downfall often arises from the same brutal tactics they once used to dominate. As a persuasive tactic, this moral tale confronts the viewer with the harsh reality that a lawless context, fueled by poverty and the absence of social structures, can corrupt even the young. the film closes on the idea that in the absence of opportunity and justice, the cycle of violence endures and no one, not even the most feared criminal, is safe from its grip.
Q1: At 1:14:50, Angelica catches my attention because of the way she patiently waits for Benny while he is arguing with Li’l Ze on how she is viewed and what she means. She portrays a new beginning and a way to escape for Benny.
Q2: At 1:31:21, Carrot is explaining to Rocket how he needs to get back at the other gang for everything that has wrongfully been done to him. It is very common within society to want to “get back” at people who have done us wrong.
Q3: At 1:29:40, there are about 20 people in one house in which it is really dirty and there is no sort of light system, just from the sun shining through the windows. The cycle of poverty can be seen because of the age of the house and how many people are crammed into one small area.
Q1. (00:15:58) Shorty caught my attention by how quick he was to call the cops and let them know where the kids had gone and hide to. Although he is involved in violent drug trades, he is aware of the power and protection that the police can offer in certain situations. This shows the symbolization of corruption of crime and authority in the film.
Q2. (01:29:17) The loyalty and brother hood in gangs that is known through the community. The norm with the criminal structures is that loyalty to a gang or leader is essential for survival. Even within this criminal setting, there are individuals who exhibit personal codes of ethics, loyalty to friends and stick to principles.
Q3. (00:58:16 – 01:04:36) Righteous Analogue- He begins to narrate his journey. He talk about how the children start to rob. He is narrating what he as a child had to do and what Little Z is now doing to “protect the city.” Later he talk about himself, and narrates what he does compared to “Little Z,” which is working at a store to buy himself a camera. This camera to start his career. We can see the cycle of poverty because of what the children are going through and the struggles that he had to overcome due to being somone from the City of God.
Q1. At (00:51), Tiago catches my attention as he is seen trading in stolen valuables from his wealthy family to get substances from the gangs. His discomfort in the slum environment—despite coming from a background many in the hood dream of escaping—shows a deliberate choice to reject his privileged upbringing. This scene illustrates symbolic interactionism by demonstrating how Tiago’s actions and internal conflict redefine his identity, aligning him with the gritty reality of the favela.
Q2. At (01:04), Rocket faces trouble at his supermarket job when his association with the local kid gang leads to him being denied his wage and ultimately losing his job. The manager’s refusal to pay him underscores a societal norm that categorizes individuals based on their background. This scene reflects structuration theory by showing how deep-rooted social structures and expectations keep people confined to their social class, no matter how hard they try to move up at times.
Q3. At (02:01), Lil Z is shown murdered by the kids of the slums gang. After being a powerful gang leader who had built a strong following by arming his crew and even bribing the police to protect him, he ultimately gets killed by the very youth he once commanded. This scene serves as a moral tale by warning that no one is ever truly protected when they choose a life of violence and crime. Even the most powerful fall, showing that such a path leads only to inevitable downfall just as all of the other “big fish” had as well.
All those who posted got full credit. I'm still seeing minor errors: GSP typos and a "title' error. If you keep it brief, please make sure you give me a complete sentence. Other than that, you guys really nailed this assignment!
There will be some late posts and then I'll tell you how this award-winning director amplified the message: Cyle of Poverty.
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