The film is loosely based on a true story and follows the lives of two young boys, Rocket (Diogo Infante) and his friend, Bicho de Pé (Seu Jorge), growing up in the slums of Rio. The story takes a dark turn when a ruthless and cunning gang leader, Tuco (Rodrigo de la Serna), starts to wreak havoc on the community. As the violence escalates, Rocket finds himself caught in the crossfire, struggling to survive and make a better life for himself.