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Capturing the metropolitan unease and dynamic spirit of São Paulo, filmmaker Caetano's gripping drama focuses on those who inhabit the outskirts of an constantly evolving metropolis. Newly freed from juvenile prison, 18-year-old Wellington (João Pedro Mariano) finds himself at a crossroads; deserted by his parents, the innocent young man finds solace in the arms of others.

On an night on the town with his lively group of queer and non-binary friends, Wellington meets Ronaldo (actor Ricardo Teodoro), a strapping, magnetic hustler over double his age. Bathed in the wavering neon of a neon-lit porn cinema, their first meeting is sensuous and erotic, with an edge of danger. Ronaldo promptly ushers Wellington to the underground scene of prostitution and narcotics trafficking.

A Portrait of Understanding Rather Than Sensationalism

The director portrays Wellington’s new life of crime with tender empathy as opposed to as a melodramatic morality play. Now going by the name of Baby, he approaches his transactional encounters with brash fearlessness and touching naivety. To his clients, Wellington lends not only his youth and his body, but also fleeting acts of kindness.

In the electrifying chaos of São Paulo, overflowing with busy lanes and colourful shopfronts, there’s a persistent isolation, as rootless people hold fast to one another for fleeting joy.

"The city might be riddled with risk, yet they are also the space where they can find their own family, too."

A Complex Relationship of Affection and Power

Ronaldo is at once a romantic interest and a guardian-like mentor to Wellington, but their relationship is derailed by envy and financial instability. Intimidation from shady figures in the criminal underworld pale in comparison to the dread of government monitoring and incarceration, epitomized by the looming presence of police officers making their rounds.

Baby is especially potent as an astute portrait of the lost people who have fallen through the cracks the system. The film ultimately serves as a moving examination into making ends meet, found community, and the quest for purpose within a demanding urban landscape.