The Irish director Danny Boyle (The maker of 28 days Later) has created a new film set in a very different environment. The film follows the story of a young man from the slums of Mumbai, India. The film opens in the middle of the Indian version of the game show, “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” in which the young man (played by new comer Dev Patel) is the contestant. How he got there and what happens to him comprises the plot.
The structure of the film is involved, taking us back and forth in time as it traces the story of Jamal, his brother and their girlfriend Latika. Equal parts exhilarating and disturbing, the movie takes us to places the usual Hollywood film doesn’t go. The children grow up as orphans on the streets of the city (and though three different actors play each character at different ages, Boyle avoids being confusing). This is an eye-opening film, where we see both the worst and best of mankind.
The recent terrorist attack in Mumbai adds a layer of complexity to the film–we are drawn to look at the city in all it’s rawness. As a bonus, there is a very enjoyable soundtrack, a Hollywood style dance number (stay for the credits) and a few M.I.A. songs. I recommend the film.
I give it *** out of four.
This is such a good article, I love it. Thank you for this and I hope to read more of your articles!
xoxo
how fine is latika?
this was not that helpful…sorry. Can do better.?