Rio drama is Berlin winner

THE Berlin Film Festival wrapped up yesterday after bestowing its top award on a blood-soaked Brazilian drama that some critics accused of glorifying police brutality in the slums of Rio de Janeiro.

Rio drama is Berlin winner

The Elite Squad, which beat out favourites from Hollywood and Britain to win the Golden Bear for best picture, portrays violence and corruption within a crack police team sent to clean up Rio’s crime-infested favelas.

A box-office hit in Brazil, director Jose Padilha’s film divided critics at the 58th Berlinale, with one reviewer calling it “a recruitment film for fascist thugs”. Mr Padilha said he had been “concerned” at some of the criticism, but insisted it was misplaced.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited