wonderful

Rating: 9/10 (22 January 2009)

i saw this film before it went into limited release at a special screening with director Danny Boyle. my initial reaction to the film was that it was good, but not that great.
then, over the next couple of weeks, the memory of the film stayed with me and it continued to grow on me until i felt strongly compelled to go see it again (something i don't do often). i found myself catching so many beautiful moments the 2nd time around, and was moved to tears in several different scenes.
this is a powerful film, and don't let the more fable-like qualities of it distract you from the amazing sounds and visuals. Mr. Boyle describes this as a "love song for Mumbai," and that is exactly what it is: a love song. this film, from Mr. Boyle's delightful direction, the amazing cinematography & editing, the incredible score by R.A. Rahman, and some compelling performances by delightful unknowns Dev Patel and Frieda Pinto, is one of the best films i have ever had the pleasure of viewing.
this is, in my opinion, the best film of 2008. with drama, romance, humor, action, and lots of heart, it has something for everyone. wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. don't miss it on the big screen.