Slam

Slam (original title: Derrapada) is a thrilling 2023 Brazilian drama directed by Marcello Cervi, featuring Matheus Costa in a compelling lead role. The film follows the journey of a passionate young man entangled in the adrenaline-fueled world of street racing and skateboarding in São Paulo. As he balances his ambitions, community ties, and the pressures of life, the narrative explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom on wheels. Against a gritty urban backdrop, Slam delves into the culture of underground sports, offering viewers both intense action sequences and an intimate character study that resonates with the spirit of youth and rebellion.

Slam has been noted for its genuine portrayal of youth culture and dynamic action scenes, with critics praising Matheus Costa's energetic performance. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 75% approval rating, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics from The Guardian highlighted the film's "gritty realism and heartfelt storytelling," stating it "captures the pulse of São Paulo's street racing scene with authenticity." IMDb users have rated the movie 7.2/10, appreciating its engaging narrative and vibrant cinematography, though some commented that the pacing can be uneven in parts. Metacritic assigns Slam a score of 68 out of 100, based on mixed to positive reviews, with the consensus noting that while "the film doesn’t necessarily break new ground," it "delivers strong performances and thrilling sequences that hold viewers' attention." However, a few critics from Variety expressed that the storyline occasionally relies on familiar tropes of the coming-of-age genre, possibly limiting its broader appeal. Overall, Slam is recognized as a solid entry in contemporary Brazilian cinema, with its energetic direction and cultural authenticity earning commendation.