The Return Of Danny Boyle

Rating: 10/10 (13 December 2008)

Danny Boyle has certainly made his share of worthy films since his first offering, 'Shallow Grave',in 1994, to be followed up by 'Trainspotting' the following year. Despite one clinker (28 Days), he has managed to earn my respect as a talented director. 'Slumdog Millionaire' is just another hands down winner for Boyle. The film concerns a homeless "Chai Wallah" (tea dispenser)who manages to get himself on India's equivalent to 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire'. The film works within the frame work that it's believed that he is cheating, and is carted off to the local police department for a confession (under some brutal torture). Within the use of flashbacks, we find out about just how he got to where he is. The film's cast includes actors known from Bollywood musicals,including some others recruited from their work in Indian television. The romance angle also works,as well. This is a film that manages to evoke a myriad of emotions for the central character. It has a certain Charles Dickens feel to it,as well as a rough & tumble inner city drama (think in terms of 'City Of God'). Rated 'R' by the MPAA, this film serves up some brutal violence & rough language,as well as some unpleasant child abuse. Okay for older teens,but you may want to leave the younger children out of it.