: The film famously used a cast of non-professional actors recruited from real favelas in Rio. This lent an unmatched authenticity to the performances and the atmosphere.
"Cidade de Deus" was a critical and commercial success, both in Brazil and internationally. The film premiered at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation. It went on to win numerous awards, including the Grand Prix des Amériques at the Montreal World Film Festival. The film's success helped to raise awareness about the plight of the favelas and the need for social and economic change in Brazil. cidadededeuscityofgod2002brriph264aa new