"Slumdog Millionaire"
Starring: Dev Patel
***.5/****
"Slumdog Millionaire," based off the novel "Q & A," is a vibrant film, directed with unlimited uniqueness and originality by the underrated Danny Boyle (28 Days Later, Trainspotting).
The film tells of Jamal Malik, a young orphan who battled the tough life of being a "Slumdog" in the run down city of Mumbai, India. The gritty landscapes and towns are reminiscent of the same settings in the 2003 film "City of God." With Mumbai as a setting, Boyle creates immediate atmosphere and grit from the first few scenes, transporting the audience into this hostile and bleak setting.
Boyle has always been a great storyteller, he has created strong narratives with multiple film genres throughout his filmography. Boyle's strong vision enhances this material from predictable storytelling, to a film with strong narrative structure.
As the film starts, a 20 year old Jamal is being questioned by the Mumbai police. He is a contestant on India's version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire," and he's one question away from winning 20 million rupees. As the show breaks for the night, Jamal is tortured and beaten, as he is suspected of cheating. After all, how can a young slumdog be smarter than doctors and lawyers who have previously tried their hand at this game show.
As Jamal is questioned, we flashback through his harsh upbringing and his brutal survival methods to where he is now. Episodes in his life have granted him the answers to the game show questions. We watch Jamal transform from a young thief, to a contestant who really seeks more than the winnings on the show.
This film won the coveted audience award at the Toronto Film Festival, if it's momentum increases throughout the Oscar season, and I believe it will, "Slumdog" may have a chance to win best picture. Don't miss this film which offers stunning visuals, solid performances, and a winning story.
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