It's even better than people say it is...

Rating: 9/10 (17 February 2009)

It is difficult to encapsulate SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE in any single comment/review, as it is a much too powerful Motion Picture to concisely summarise, blending together so many elements of human emotion and humanity, all done in a stylish manner characteristic of Danny Boyle. It is a film that begins with quite dark elements, leading the viewer to believe that it is a film noir, but as this excellent film progresses and unravels, the viewer slowly begins to understand the non-chronological plot.
The basic premise of SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE is Destiny, for those who choose to believe in such things. For it is only human to embrace the concept of Destiny; that someone is truly destined for something or someone else, and that the Universe tends to unfold as it should in order to facilitate such.
The cast is impeccable, as even the younger unknown actors/actresses do incredibly well. Special note must be made about Dev Patel, who it seems was born to play the lead role. He is extremely likable (almost too likable, one might say) and it is inconceivable to think that any audience will be rooting against him. Anil Kapoor is also quite superb as the game-show host, bringing a sense of deceptiveness and deviousness to go along with his charm and personality. Freida Pinto also deserves credit for her part as the eldest Latika. In all, this is quite easily one of the best ensembles to grace the theatre in 2008, and is another compelling argument (for) that Best Ensemble should be added to the Academy Awards.
The story is an engrossing and uplifting one, full of redemption and victory following struggle and hardship. It is perhaps one of the most inspirational films of the decade, and of all time.
As of early February, much awards buzz has been surrounding Danny Boyle's masterpiece, and it is easy to understand why people gravitate towards this finely-constructed story. I will be posting this review well before the Academy Awards, but I am confident that this film will deservedly walk away with the Best Picture and Best Director awards, just to name a couple.
Unreservedly recommended. 9/10. 4 stars (out of 4). Even on first viewing, this film should enter my Top 100 at 77.