Top Dog

Rating: 8/10 (15 August 2009)

"Slumdog Millionaire" tells the story of Jamal Malik (Dev Patel), a teenaged orphan from the slums of Mumbai who is in the middle of an improbable run on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?". However, all is not well, since the film opens with him being interrogated by police in response to accusations of cheating. Thus, Jamal relates the story of his life.
I have to admit that I was skeptical of this film and half-expected a hokey feel-good story with little depth. However, while 'rags to riches' stories are indeed a dime a dozen this one is different. For one thing, the setting is one that hasn't been done to death in American film. Also, the film's romantic subplot adds an extra dimension to the proceedings.
The cast is a good one, even though it includes no familiar faces. While none of the film's ten Oscar nominations came in the acting categories, the acting is consistently above average.
Danny Boyle's direction is top-notch and resulted in a well-deserved Best Director Oscar. This, along with the Oscar-winning editing and cinematography combine to produce a vibrant, dazzling film. Also worthy of note is the score, which netted the film two more Oscars (Best Original Score & Best Original Song). The music is quite unique throughout and is as energetic as the visuals.
I'm glad to see Danny Boyle return to form with another film as solid as "Trainspotting". This one is top-notch entertainment; slightly lightweight perhaps, but eminently satisfying nonetheless. In my opinion, a worthy Best Picture Oscar winner.