Two brawling childhood friends, Deco and Naldinho, share ownership as adults of a boat docked on the waterfront of the Brazilian city of Salvador. Their bond is inseparable, to the point that Naldinho even declares that “no woman will ever come between us.” Of course, you can guess what comes between them—none other than the lovely Karinna, an occasional dancer and more-than-occasional prostitute who manages to snag both men in a love triangle that creates seriously bumpy waves. While stylishly directed by Sergio Machado (who was assistant director to Walter Salles on Central Station), Lower City is cliché-ridden and overstuffed with racial strife, economic disparity, bar fights, sexual encounters staged beneath abnormally melodramatic lighting, and violent crime filmed with Bolshoi-worthy balletic skill. At the same time, the film is lacking in several key areas, including compelling characters, an engaging screenplay, or actors whose talents stretch beyond their ability to appear photogenic. Make no mistake, Lower City has plenty of glitz and energy to help disguise what it lacks in substance, but by the time the credits roll, its lack of soul is obvious. Optional. [Note: DVD extras include a 26-minute “making-of” featurette, 12 minutes of cast rehearsals, five deleted scenes (4 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a disappointing film.] (P. Hall)
Lower City
Palm, 98 min., in Portuguese w/English subtitles, R, DVD: $24.99, Sept. 12 Volume 21, Issue 5
Lower City
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