Pixote

+ intro by director Bárbara Paz

Pixote, a Lei do Mais Fraco

This visceral portrayal of abandoned childhood and institutional violence in Brazil is considered a masterpiece of social realism.

  • Director

    Héctor Babenco

  • With

    Fernando Ramos da Silva, Jorge Julião, Gilberto Moura

  • Brazil 1980. 129min

  • Digital 4K

  • Certificate

    18

  • English subtitles

Young Pixote escapes a nightmarish juvenile detention centre and navigates São Paulo’s dangerous street life with his runaway friends. Babenco’s international breakthrough blends naturalism, raw authenticity and unforgettable performances by non-professional cast.

Contains scenes of domestic violence or abuse, homophobic attitudes and language.

Restored by Cineteca di Bologna at L’Immagine Ritrovata and The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project in collaboration with JLS Facilitações Sonoras and Cinemateca Brasileira. Funding provided by the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation.

Joint ticket available with Babenco: Tell Me When I Die + Q&A with director Bárbara Paz on Sunday 21 June £22.50, concessions £19.50 (Members pay £2.50 less). Book in person at the box office or by phone on 020 7928 3232.

The screening of Pixote on Monday 8 June will feature a pre-recorded intro by filmmaker Héctor Babenco.