The Sandpit Generals (1971)

Long before City of God, another gang of homeless kids roamed the favelas in The Sandpit Generals (1971). Based on a novel by Brazilian author Jorge Amado, this obscure flick features a gang of youths who rob, ravage, practice capoeira, perform Santeria rituals, and generally terrorize the good citizens of Rio de Janiero. A progressive priest tries to minister to the young ruffians, but it’s an orphan girl seeking shelter at their beachfront shack who turns out to be the Snow White to their Seven Dwarves. The lion’s share of the boys are eventually captured and sent to prison, and when they get out, there’s an unhappy surprise waiting for them at home.  Tisha Sterling is worth her weight in gold when she shows her huge nips and upturned udders to her loverboy on the beach. Just don’t get sand in your pit, Tisha!