The movie follows the lives of several characters living in Cidade de Deus, including the charismatic and ruthless drug dealer Lil Ze, the aspiring photographer Benny, and the kind-hearted gangster Knockout Ned.
As Buscapé grows up, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the violence and crime in his community. He dreams of becoming a photographer and escaping the cycle of poverty and violence that surrounds him. However, he is constantly pulled back into the dangerous world of the favela.
Meanwhile, Lil Ze rises to power as the most feared and violent gang leader in Cidade de Deus. His reign of terror leads to a series of brutal killings and escalating violence within the community.
The lives of Buscapé, Lil Ze, Benny, and Knockout Ned become increasingly intertwined as they navigate the complexities of life in the favela. Ultimately, the movie explores themes of survival, redemption, and the impact of poverty and violence on the lives of its characters.