One of the most inspirational and beautiful stories ever told on film

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2008)

First off, you need to believe the hype surrounding this film. Whether it be one of the most gripping and heartwrenching stories ever shown on film, or the wonderful direction of Danny Boyle, everything you've heard about this film is true, as Slumdog Millionaire is not only one of the best films of the year, but one of the best I've ever seen.
I've never been more sure of a film's greatness this quickly before. Even for my all time favorite films, it took a few viewings to make them my favorite. Not this one. The story behind this incredible journey is inspiring, as are the technical achievements of it. It's a capsule that will transport you into an entirely different culture, and give you an experience that should stick with you for a long time.
For those that do not know, the film's plot follows Jamal Malik, who is one question away from winning the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?". However, once he is suspected of cheating, Jamal uses his past as a "slumdog" to explain how he knows the answer to every question. What follows is easily the best story of 2008 on film, and it would be a crime to tell you any more.
Though Slumdog Millionaire focuses on three characters in particular, it's hard to review all of the actors...Mostly because a grand total of NINE different actors portray each of the characters in total, three each for each time period. However, that doesn't stop Dev Patel from turning in an Oscar worthy performance as the oldest version of Jamal. His performance, as well as those of the other two boys who play Jamal, carve out one of the most likable characters you'll ever find, because of his perseverance, determination, and unwavering kindness. This is more of a case of an actor riding the coattails of such a well written character.
Freida Pinto as the oldest version of Latika did a wonderful job in such a pivotal role despite limited screen time. She was a joy to watch, both from a movie goer's standpoint and a male's standpoint, as she's unbelievably gorgeous. There is no weak spot in the cast, right down to all the other actors who play the kids, as well as the adults in the film. It's one of the best ensembles of the year.
Though Slumdog Millionaire is an "inspirational" movie, it is not without its darker themes, as it deals with deception, betrayal, and the brutality of living in the life that Jamal must lead. It's even more amazing how kind and caring Jamal is despite the environment the film takes place in.
The awesome genre director Danny Boyle may already have his masterpiece with this film, and I really think he hasn't even hit his peak yet, as this would be tough to top. It takes a lot of ability to bring such a fine script to the screen without messing it up, but Boyle does a beautiful job with his vivid sets, as well as camera work that reminds me of his excellent film, "28 Days Later". Though this film is vastly different, they share the similar theme of survival, something that is a recurring theme in all of Boyle's films. He was already one of my favorite directors, but now he may be getting close to David Fincher for the top spot.
As I've already said, the sets, camera work, and editing are all flawless, but I think it's the film's score that really sets the tone, as it flows so well with the setting, characters, and the story itself. This was part of the reason I was in tears at the end, which really doesn't happen to me all that often. Every aspect of the film is at such a high level that it all blends together perfectly to craft what may be the best movie of 2008.
Slumdog Millionaire, in short, is a film that cannot be missed by anyone. It's an inspiring and beautiful story that will move anyone. I know it's already one of my favorites, and it may end up staying there for a very, very long time.