Savage, need a strong stomach

Rating: 8/10 (1 March 2009)

There is no denying that this is a powerful drama. I have to say that all the awards, nominations and rave reviews paint a pretty picture of this film and its uplifting message. Fine, I accept that, but I was a late viewer of this film and I wish that I had been prepared for the R Rated stuff.
I don't usually have a weak stomach, but it was turned by more than one of the brutal scenes in this film. How accurate the depiction is I can only guess, but if the truth is close then it is a sickening portrayal. Clearly my life has been too sheltered if I am disturbed by the graphic and violent scenes, but be warned........ *Spoilers ahead BIG TIME!* Jamal loses his mother when she is beaten to death for being a Muslim, another man is set on fire in front of him, both happen on the same day when he is about 7. His brother appears to be a schizo sociopath, who rapes his best friend and love interest and steals her away from him for the second time out of a total of four. Another orphan friend of his is blinded (graphically) because he can sing and blind beggars make more money than sighted ones.
So to all those who are saying wow to the cinematography and directing and message etc etc I agree with all that, the directing especially is excellent, but I did not leave the theatre with a warm feeling of 'it is written' and 'destiny' and the 'strength of the human spirit to overcome'. I am left instead with extremely graphic images of the torture, betrayal, murder and corruption of modern Mumbai. NOT a place I plan to visit Ever and I thank my lucky stars that I was not born to the poverty of the slums of Mumbai. See this movie at your peril or at the very least, follow it immediately with a comedy or cartoon to assist with dumbing down the gag reflex!