The City and the Dogs

Set in a Lima military academy, the film explores the harsh realities and brutal hazing rituals endured by cadets. It follows a group of young men as they navigate a system rife with corruption, violence, and the loss of innocence. The story centers on Ricardo Arana, nicknamed 'The Poet,' who becomes a target for his intellectualism and defiance. His struggle against the oppressive environment and the tragic consequences of the academy's culture form the core of the narrative.

The City and the Dogs is widely regarded as a landmark of Peruvian cinema, earning critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of authoritarianism and its impact on youth. It was praised for its raw intensity, strong performances, and its challenging themes, becoming a significant cultural and cinematic event both domestically and internationally.

• A powerful and disturbing depiction of military academy life.

• Praised for its unflinching realism and social commentary.

• Considered a significant work in Latin American cinema.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews is not readily available, but the film is generally esteemed for its serious dramatic content and cultural importance within Peru.

Ariel Award for Best Foreign Actor (Luis Navare), Montreal World Film Festival Award for Best Film, Havana Film Festival Audience Award.

The film is based on the acclaimed 1963 novel of the same name by Nobel laureate Mario Vargas Llosa, which itself was inspired by real-life events at the Leoncio Prado Military Academy.