Sprawling Humanity

Rating: 9/10 (1 September 2009)

I am always hesitant to see a movie after hearing all the hype. I was wondering if the Film Academy had just kind of decided to go in a different direction (as they often do). I was greatly moved by this film and the story of the young man who overcomes not just the horrors of his existence but the prejudice drummed up by those who assume he must be too stupid to do well. l was greatly impressed by the squalor and the long shots of the city. This movie shows the slums so well. It reminded me of the Casbah, where one lives in a maze and can find his way around in it when being chased. These kids are products of their culture and know no other way. There are so many scenes that are so impressive. The boy who drops into the excrement of the outhouse so he can get an autograph of his favorite actor. The horrors of the Fagin character who exploits children, makes them a band of beggars. There is, mostly, however, the story of the central figure who is complex and worldly and suspicious and brave beyond his own years. The other mass character is the Indian people who begin to follow the boy's successes on "Who Wants to Be a Millionairre." I will never forget the portrayal of the city and the filth and the spirit that runs through here. This is masterful storytelling.