Pixote (1980)

Kernel Score: 88% · 234 TMDB ratings · Rated R

Genres: Crime, Drama

Released: 1980-09-26

Runtime: 127 minutes

Where to watch Pixote

  • Rent: Prime Video
  • Buy: Prime Video

US availability, updated 2026-11-12.

Overview

10-year-old Pixote endures torture, degradation, and corruption at a local youth detention center where two of its members are murdered by policemen who frame Lilica, a 17-year-old trans hustler. Pixote helps Lilica and three other boys escape and they start to make their living by a life of crime which only escalates to more violence and death.

Pixote parents' guide: ages 16+

Parents need to know that Pixote is a harrowing Brazilian drama about a child living through crime, abuse, and violence in a youth detention system, intended for mature audiences only.

  • Violence & scariness: Intense — Depicts torture, murder, and extreme abuse suffered by and committed by children.
  • Sex, romance & nudity: Moderate — Includes depictions of prostitution and mature sexual content.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Héctor Babenco

Cast

  • Fernando Ramos da Silva as Pixote
  • Jorge Julião as Lilica
  • Gilberto Moura as Dito
  • Edilson Lino as Chico
  • Zenildo Oliveira Santos as Fumaça
  • Claudio Bernardo as Garatao
  • Israel Feres David as Roberto Pie de Plata
  • Jose Nilson Martin Dos Santos as Diego
  • Marília Pêra as Sueli
  • Jardel Filho as Sapatos Brancos

Pixote FAQ

Is Pixote good?

Pixote has an 88% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels, our own critic-informed editorial score.

Where can I watch Pixote?

In the US you can rent it from Prime Video.

Is Pixote OK for kids?

Pixote is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 16+. Parents need to know that Pixote is a harrowing Brazilian drama about a child living through crime, abuse, and violence in a youth detention system, intended for mature audiences only.

What movies are like Pixote?

If you liked Pixote, try Hustle & Flow, Christiane F., Monster and The Unforgivable.