Lifelong friends Deco and Naldinho share ownership of an old, rusting boat in Salvador, Brazil. A strong bond exists between the two men, transcending their racial differences. "No woman will come between us," Naldinho tells Deco, and Deco concurs: "All the women in the world couldn't come between us."

That bond is tested after the men meet Karinna, a dancer and prostitute. Karinna needs a ride, and she offers the two men her "services" in exchange for transport on their boat and a little cash.

The emotional entanglements that result from Karinna's "deal" are stronger than the trio expected. Deco and Naldinho develop a desire to possess Karinna. Karinna's desires are more subtle, though its clear that she feels both a sisterly affection and sexual attraction toward the two men.

New York Times reviewer A.O. Scott notes that Karinna "comes to represent an escape from the impoverished, semicriminal lives" of Naldinho and Deco.

Lower City is in Portuguese with English subtitles.

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