Slumdog Millionaire - Movie Review and Synopsis

The story of how impoverished Indian teen Jamal Malik became a contestant on the Hindi version of “Who Wants to be A Millionaire?” — an endeavor made without prize money in mind, rather, an effort to prove his love for his friend Latika, who is an ardent fan of the show.

Danny Boyle’s latest has had quite the ride on the way its awards-friendly berth; originally purchased by Warner Independent Pictures, the film’s future was in limbo when WIP closed its doors given the gloomy climate for indie/art-house films. For a minute there, Slumdog almost went direct to DVD (which may not come as a surprise to those who saw Sunshine). “Dickensian” and “Capraesque” are two descriptors being used by those who saw it at the Telluride Film Festival, though to me it sounds like Boyle is giving a nod to his contemporary, Michael Winterbottom, who often (successfully) mines for gold outside of his native UK.

Rated R for some violence, disturbing images and language.

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