A bold Brazilian melodrama that moves to the rhythm of the streets, “Antonia” traces a year in the lives of four young women who form a rap group and fend off tragedy.

Tired of singing backup to male rap stars, Preta (Negra Li), Lena (Cindy), Barbarah (Leilah Moreno) and Mayah (Quelynah) — all successful musicians in real life — rehearse their own music and acquire an agent. But when the group falls prey to brutal violence, internal jealousies and an unplanned pregnancy, the girls learn that escape from poverty will require more than fierce rhymes.

The third feature in a trilogy by Tata Amaral, “Antonia” pulses with color and movement. Filmed in the São Paulo suburb of Vila Brasilândia, the movie has an earthy realism underscored by naturalistic performances and a restless camera. Maximizing her nonprofessional cast of Brazilian hip-hop performers, the director fills the soundtrack with a vibrant blend of R&B, soul and rap. When the group sings an a cappella version of “Killing Me Softly,” you may forget to breathe.

Driven by a screenplay (by Ms. Amaral and Roberto Moreira) that evolved during rehearsals, “Antonia” explores cultural and sexual oppression with sensitivity and verve. The story may lack complexity, but it is loaded with irrepressible energy and a deep appreciation of female friendship. And that’s always something to sing about.

“Antonia” is rated PG-13 (Parents strongly cautioned). It has strongly worded rhymes, posturing chauvinists and a violent hate crime.

ANTONIA

Opens today in Manhattan, Newark and Los Angeles.

Directed by Tata Amaral; written (in Portuguese, with English subtitles) by Roberto Moreira and Ms. Amaral; director of photography, Jacob Sarmento Solitrenick; edited by Idê Lacreta; music by Beto Villares and Parteum; production designer, Rafael Ronconi; produced by Geórgia Costa Araújo and Ms. Amaral; released by Anywhere Road. Running time: 90 minutes.

WITH: Negra Li (Preta), Cindy (Lena), Leilah Moreno (Barbarah), Quelynah (Mayah) and Marcus Vinicius Kamau (Dante).