The Young and the Damned (Los Olvidados) is a 1950 Mexican film directed by Luis Buñuel. The film follows a group of young boys who struggle to survive on the streets of Mexico City, where poverty and violence are rampant. The main character, Pedro, is a quiet and sensitive boy who is initially resistant to the criminal lifestyles of his peers. However, he gradually becomes more involved in their activities and begins to lose his sense of morality.
The other delinquents include El Jaibo, a ruthless and charismatic leader who commands the respect and loyalty of the group; Julian, a sharp-witted boy with a talent for stealing; and Ojitos, a young boy who looks up to Pedro as a mentor. The film also features a sub-plot involving Pedro's mother, who is struggling to provide for her family while dealing with her own demons.
Throughout the film, the boys get involved in various illegal activities, such as theft, prostitution, and drug use. The violence escalates as the story progresses, with tragic consequences for some of the characters. The film ends on a bleak note, with Pedro and the others left to face the harsh realities of life on the streets.
The Young and the Damned is a powerful and socially conscious film that explores the effects of poverty and neglect on young people. It has been praised for its stark portrayal of urban life and its unflinching depiction of the brutality that can arise from desperation and hopelessness. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest films in Mexican cinema.
