Movie Review: Slumdog Millionaire

I was excited to see what the hype was all about after hearing that Slumdog Millionaire won 4 Golden Globe awards. I knew practically nothing about the film so I went into the theater as a veritable blank slate (a 'tabula rasa' if you will). Normally, I am quite skeptical about movies getting 5 stars and a bajillion awards. While these films are often good, I find that others are simply overlooked. However, in the case of 'Slumdog,' I must agree with the critics.

The movie centers around a young man in India, Jamal Malik, as he is questioned by the authorities about how he answered so many questions correctly on their version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" As he is "questioned" (read that, "tortured"), he flashes back to various events in his life that gave him the knowledge to answer the game show questions. This movie highlights the poor, uncertain and often tragic life that face those who live in the slums of India. There is exploitation of children, murder, religious persecution, abject poverty, rape, etc.  However, there is also themes of hope, goodness and, of course, love. 

I thought the movie was a very good one that had a very good story and I would certainly recommend this movie to others.  When you watch it, pay attention to the differences between Jamal and his brother. Although they grow up in the same environment they truly embody the tension that is seen in the movie between good and evil.  Money is another element to follow in the movie.  It seems that money is truly at the heart of the movie (it's even a part of the title). Pay attention to how people pursue money and how that money affects them.

All in all, Slumdog Millionaire is a great film that I highly recommend.