‘Children of the Church Steps’ Netflix Series Review - A Good and Serious Watch

The series introduces us to Douglas, Sete (Seven), Jesus, and Pipoca (Popcorn), four children burdened with personal struggles that shape their lives and drive their stories. Each child faces a distinct challenge: Douglas is determined to give his father a proper burial, a goal that reflects his desire for dignity and closure amidst his grief. Sete grapples with his sexuality, navigating a world that doesn’t easily accept him. Pipoca is haunted by the memory of her mother, who abandoned her, leaving her with a profound sense of loss. Meanwhile, Jesus is running from a traumatic past, trying to escape the scars of an abusive orphanage and searching for a better, more peaceful life. Their paths cross at the Candelária Church, a symbolic meeting point where they find solace in each other’s company, bonding over shared pain and dreams of a brighter future.

One of the show's most distinctive features is its structure, with each episode focusing on a different character's point of view. This narrative choice allows for a deep dive into the personal motivations and struggles of the children, providing a layered perspective that helps the audience empathize with their individual journeys. The shifting focus also adds emotional weight to the story, as viewers are drawn closer to each character before the tragic events of the series unfold. However, while this episodic approach succeeds in building a connection between the audience and the characters, it sometimes results in uneven pacing. The constant shift in perspectives can make the story feel fragmented, leaving some viewers struggling to maintain the emotional momentum.

The series does not shy away from depicting the grim realities these children face. Poverty, abandonment, abuse, and identity struggles are portrayed with raw honesty, creating an atmosphere thick with despair. Yet, the show’s unrelenting focus on these darker elements can at times feel overwhelming. There are few moments of relief or hope to balance the weight of the children’s suffering, making it a difficult and emotionally taxing watch. The tension builds relentlessly, and the looming sense of inevitable tragedy is ever-present, casting a shadow over the series that can leave viewers feeling emotionally drained.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the performances of the young cast are a highlight. Samuel Silva’s portrayal of Douglas is both heartfelt and nuanced. His ability to convey Douglas’s inner turmoil and desperation as he tries to honor his father is striking. Wendy Queiroz shines as Pipoca, delivering a performance filled with innocence, vulnerability, and quiet strength. Her longing for her mother is palpable, and her resilience is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Patrick Congo also stands out as Sete, delivering a sensitive and nuanced performance that captures the complexity of his character’s internal struggle with his identity.

However, despite the strong performances, the series sometimes falters in its execution. There are moments when the narrative drags, and the show struggles to balance the individual character arcs with the overarching storyline. At times, it seems the series is trying to cover too much ground, leaving certain plot lines underdeveloped and unresolved. Nonetheless, the emotional depth and raw performances make the series a compelling, albeit challenging, watch.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times