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SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

Starring: Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Mahesh Manjrekar, Madhur Mittal, Ayush Mahesh Khedekar, Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Kahn

Directed by: Danny Boyle

Rated R for some violence, disturbing images and language

By John Delia

Probably the most unnoticed film of 2008, in my opinion Slumdog Millionaire happens to be one of the years best. Although there is no storyline resemblance to Juno or Little Miss Sunshine, the film fits in their category of an independent film that’s different and full of heart. I liked this drama because it was entertaining throughout and kept me on the edge of my seat up to the time the credits rolled.
Slumdog Millionaire is the story of Jamal Malik (Patel), an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life. With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees (about $400,000 US) on India’s “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?”
But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika (Pinto), the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show’s questions. But one question remains a mystery: what is this young man with no apparent desire for riches really doing on the game show?
Under the keen direction of Boyle (Millions, 28 Days Later) the entire cast gives brilliant performances. I was completely captivated by the three main leads at all ages depicted on the screen. The game show Jamal at 18 takes on most of the dialogue in the film, but performances by Pinto as the older Latika and, Manjrekar as his brother Javed make the storyline work for the screen. Patel and Pinto are acting for the first time in this movie, but you would not believe it. Their strong screen presence and ability to deliver their character consistently within the storyline is a treat.
But the winner in acting here is Khedekar as the youngest Jamal. His innocent smile and lovable personality captivate the screen. Facing the danger of a wild escape from his would be captors the wild-eyed Khedekar gives an unforgettable emotional performance that had me glued to the screen.
The film brought some excellent films about children to mind including; City of God, City of Men, Millions and Kite Runner. If you are into films that inspire, are thought provoking and ultimately uplifting, then you will love, as I did, Slumdog Millinaire, my choice for best foreign film.
The film is rated R for violence, disturbing images and language so be cautioned when deciding to bring youngsters to see the film. The movie was filmed in English in Mumbai, India.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Slumdog Millionaire is an inspiring and courageous film that should not be missed. (5 of 5 Palm Trees)