Ari Lopez is a young boy with dreams of playing professional soccer. 

He lives in a part of Mexico far from the shining lights of big stadiums, but a pamphlet for a soccer camp in Los Angeles gives him hope to chase his dreams. 

His father sends him north with a flamboyant coyote with a badly-gelled ‘do, flashy shirt, and sports car. 

The stranger promises a new life, but it’s not the kind Ari dreamed of when he wakes up in Los Angeles. 

He learns that he has been bought and sold to a windowless sweatshop with no hope of escape or a chance at pursuing his dream. 

Director Mohit Ramchandani’s aim is to bring out the horrific subject of child trafficking.

The movie manages to avoid being too cumbersome or preachy, focusing instead on its movements and rhythms and its likable, sympathetic lead character.

City of Dreams ends with a real-life plea to help out.

 Ari Lopez has performed well as the trafficked child, who is filled with hopes and is caught in difficult situations. He has brought the character to life and has delivered his absolute best.

Rest of the cast including Renata Vaca, Samm Levine, Diego Calva, and Jason Patric have done their part well.

Camerawork byu Alejandro Chavez and Trevor Roach is impressive in capturing the raw emotions. The theme of the movie is ably supported by the BGM score of Lisa Gerrard and Bennett Salvay.

Rest of the technical aspects of the movie are good as well.

Rating: 3.7/5

By Naveen