Review for Kids – A Smart Portrait of Gay Brazilian Fraudsters Lost in the System | film

CHighlighting the urban anxiety and vibrancy of São Paulo, Marcelo Caetano’s refreshing drama focuses on those living on the fringes of an ever-changing city. Newly released from juvenile prison, 18-year-old Wellington (João Pedro Mariano) finds himself at a crossroads; Abandoned by his parents, the wide-eyed young man finds solace in the arms of others. One evening with his rowdy group of gay and non-binary friends, Wellington meets Ronaldo (Ricardo Teodoro), a large, charismatic con man more than twice his age. Bathed in the dim glow of neon-lit porn cinema, their first encounter is sensual and exciting, with an edge of danger. Ronaldo soon introduces Wellington to the shadowy world of sex work and drug dealing.

Cayetano depicts Wellington’s new life of crime with tender sympathy rather than as a rousing cautionary tale. Now going by the name Baby, he approaches his business meetings with cocky bravado and touching naiveté. Wellington offers its customers not only youth and body, but also moments of care. In the frenetic excitement of São Paulo, full of crowded alleys and colorful storefronts, there is a feeling of intense loneliness, as separated souls cling together for temporary bliss.

Ronaldo is Wellington’s lover and protective father, but their relationship is derailed by jealousy and economic fragility. Threats from suspicious underworld figures pale in comparison to the fear of state surveillance and imprisonment, represented by the figures hovering around police officers on patrol. The Child is most powerful as an intelligent portrait of missing people who have fallen through the cracks of the system. The streets may be dangerous, but they are also where they can find their families.

● Baby is in UK cinemas from 12 December.