Prison drama packs a punch

Based on the memoirs of Drauzio Varella, a volunteer doctor at Sao Paulo’s infamous prison, Carandiru is a compelling, often violent, and harrowing prison drama.

It tells the stories of several inmates through the eyes of the doctor (Luiz Carlos Vasconcelos).

When he first arrives at the prison the doctor is shocked to find the prisoners basically run the place. He sets up a clinic to care for the inmates and slowly starts to gain their trust.

One of the film’s main strengths is its rich cast of characters including: a drug dealer called Highness and Dagger, a vicious killer turned religious nut.

Their self-governed world comes to an end when police over-react to a riot and butcher 111 unarmed inmates.

Carandiru may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this is one film that really does pack a punch.

Drama, 18. 4/5