Slumdog Millionaire is a lot of things. It’s a fine drama, has some great comic moments and is a bit of a mystery. It’s the story of two brothers from India who lose their mother when they are very young and must fend for themselves.
The movie is seen through a series of flashbacks from Jamal, played brilliantly by Dev Patel. After he appears on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, he is forced to defend how he knew each answer. Through his flashbacks, you discover that he was left living off the streets of the slums of India. With only his brother at his side, they soon meet up with Latika, another young orphan. The three set out to survive as a trio. However, after meeting up with a businessman who seems to care for them, they discover he has ill intentions. The three try to escape, but only the brothers make it out, leaving Latika behind. Flash forward a few years and Jamal and Latika would be reunited but must go through some serious challenges to be together.
The movie does show the harsh reality of how India cares for it’s poor. In a shocking scene, the ruthless businessman who cares for the orphans is only there just to have them beg in the streets for him. He even blinds one because a blind beggar will get more money.
When I thought of a movie based around a game show, I thought it would be a disappointment. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Slumdog Millionaire of one of the best movies of 2008. Both Dev Patel and Freida Pinto give performances that will certainly make both A-list actors.
Make sure to stay as the credits roll as director Danny Boyle honors the country where the film takes place, by having a full on Bollywood style musical number.
Slumdog Millionaire is a must see movie.
