Slumdog Millionaire

Welcome to another episode of The "D" List.

Today's review is Slumdog Millionaire. This year's winner for Best Picture. Hands down. No contest.

The film was directed by Danny Boyle and Co Directed by Loveleen Tandan. She received a director credit while they shot in India.

The Script was written by Simon Beaufoy adapted by the book Q&A written by Vikas Swarup.

This film may be small by industry standards i.e. Budget, Cast, Director. But it's a POWERHOUSE in storytelling.

The plot of Slumdog Millionaire takes place in Mumbai where Jamal Malik played by newcomer and future star Dev Patel is being "interrogated" by police for suspicion of cheating on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. After several failed attempts to break Jamal, they decide to use much stronger methods when Jamal relents and tells his story. It's here where Slumdog Millionaire takes off and doesn't stop until the end credits.

Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother Salim grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika played by Freida Pinto, the girl he loved and lost.

These stories are told in flashbacks and what makes them so clever is that every memory has a direct relationship to the corresponding question that Jamal is asked on the show revealing the answer. They also establish the ever changing relationship between Jamal, Salim and Latika as they get older.

What becomes evident as Jamal advances throughout the game is that he could care less about winning the money. The fact that he is becoming a celebrity and adored by millions of people mean nothing to him. He cares about 1 thing and 1 thing only and that's finding the woman he loves. Jamal hoped that his appearance on the show would get him noticed by Latika so they could be reunited.

There are several other layers and subplots to this film but I have decided not go into them because they deserve to be experienced rather than explained. The point is simply that Slumdog Millionaire is one of the most creative and entertaining love stories that I have seen since Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. You read correctly, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a love story and to think it's a kung fu film is an insult to what that movie's real message was.

Danny Boyle has returned to his roots since he made Trainspotting and 28 Days Later. Slumdog Millionaire once again showed his ability to tell a great story and do it in an unconventional way giving it a fresh and original feel. The cast is outstanding highlighted by Patel. Another noteworthy performance is from Anil Kapoor as Prem Kumar the game show host. There is a very interesting dynamic between him and Jamal which shines through in a well crafted scene that takes place during a commercial break and when the show resumes.

Bottom line is that Slumdog Millionaire is a wonderful film that reminds you why you go to the movies. Movies provide an escape from everyday challenges but they can also teach you lessons. This film does both. You escape in the world of Jamal's rise from rags to riches. And most importantly you learn that when you truly love someone, never give up and keep the faith because in the end if it's truly meant to be your faith will be rewarded.

On the 5 star scale Slumdog Millionaire gets 4.5 stars and a big "Worth Every Penny" recommendation.

I realize that some of my other reviews have been longer and more thorough but I honestly feel that this film MUST be seen to get the full effect of it's entertainment. I refuse to spoil what this film has to offer you should you venture to the cinema.

One thing I'm not spoiling is that Slumdog Millionaire is without a shadow a doubt this year's oscar winner for Best Picture. I know I said Frost/Nixon was my initial pick but just like this film has changed many minds in Hollywood it has changed mine and for the better in my opinion.

That now brings my Best Picture tally to 4 out of 5. Milk is last on my list.

Until Next Episode....I'll save you a seat.