Film Review: Slumdog Millionaire

From director Danny Boyle comes Slumdog Millionaire, the story of a contender on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire". But this time the real drama does not lie in the show, but in the amazing back story of the boy who knows all the answers.

The boy in question is Jamal who, being one correct answer from the game's big prize, is arrested for apparently cheating. The resulting interrogation by a police inspector reveals an astonishing story, as Jamal recounts how he, a boy from the slums, knew the answer to every question he was asked. The convenient ordering of the questions allows us to follow his story from his childhood to the present day, as we're treated to the risky misadventures and charming love stories of his life.

Jamal's story offers an unparalleled insight into the struggles and highlights of an Indian slumdog, brimming with incredible moments that may be hilarious, tragic, or anything in-between. But the one guarantee is that, no matter what feeling or emotion Slumdog Millionaire invokes, the result will always be genuinely touching and memorable, and there's no doubt that you'll be infatuated with Jamal's character throughout.

The deep connection we develop with Jamal, and with every other character, is down not only to Slumdog's superb writing, but also the brilliant performances from every actor on show. Dev Patel (formerly of E4 teen drama Skins) puts in a stunning performance as the present day Jamal, nailing every aspect of the character in a truly emotional performance. Freida Pinto, too, was remarkable as Jamal's love interest Latika, especially considering this was her first role in a feature film. And particular praise must go to the child actors, who portrayed the younger characters with undeniable energy and charm. But every actor in this, from the bit part players to the leading rolls, were fantastic, creating a film that has a great energy and life, while constantly maintaining a grounded realism.

Slumdog's remarkable camera work only adds to the already great experience. Despite being mostly set in some of the poorest areas of India, everything looks stunningly beautiful, so much so that the shots of the Taj Mahal almost fade into obscurity among the lively and bustling slums and markets. The flickers of bright colours in these scenes are gorgeous, contrasting the corrugated iron and concrete with a fierce and radiant beauty. But the true genius of the film lies in the music. A blend of authentic Indian and western music, the soundtrack not only captures the essence of the film, but fits perfectly with the scenes, allowing for become one of the most captivating experiences in recent cinema.

What is so refreshing about Slumdog Millionaire is that, come the end, everyone is just so happy. Seeing this kid from the slums go on this magnificent journey, suffering the violence and tragedy of his childhood, finding the girl he loves again and again, and getting covered in all kinds of literal shit, and then having everything eventually work out is just fantastic. If you saw and liked Wall-E, you'll get the same feeling as you did at the end of that. Except amplified several thousand times.

It's early doors yet for 2009, so part of me is thinking that it's a little early to be touting Slumdog Millionaire as film of the year. But I'm going to do it anyway. A genuine, touching and absolutely stunning film, Slumdog Millionaire should not be missed by anyone. It's a gorgeous piece of art, an amazing journey, and a collection of some of the most developed and captivating characters in recent cinema. Truly Brilliant.

5/5

You know what? I feel a bit stupid for not watching Skins now. Bet you're all going to be really smug about that, aren't you?

I've already bought the soundtrack for this - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk