Slumdog Millionaire (2008): review

A quiz show opens onto an entire life

Jamal is close to the top prize on an Indian television quiz. How can a young man from a poor background know every answer? The police suspect cheating. Danny Boyle uses that question to open a life story in which individual experiences explain why Jamal possesses precisely this knowledge. It is an exceptionally effective construction: each answer has an experience behind it rather than being a memorised fact.

Memories that draw me in

The flashbacks show poverty, violence and the difficulties Jamal and his brother face as they grow up. His connection with Latika becomes particularly important. The romance is more than an addition to the story; it gives his search a direction. The film takes me through different stages of their lives without losing their connection. It can be harsh while still holding on to hope.

Emotion is its great strength

Slumdog Millionaire moved me deeply on several occasions. Some scenes reach the emotions so directly that I suffer alongside the characters and wish them a different life. The performances make that connection possible. Dev Patel and Freida Pinto convincingly play the adult characters, while their younger counterparts are equally important to the effect. The changing periods feel like parts of the same story.

Cinema with its own energy

Boyle combines his storytelling with impressive images and music that gives its movement considerable energy. This is not a conventional Bollywood production. The closing dance number nevertheless fits its enjoyment of cinema beautifully. After watching it, I can easily understand its eight Oscars, including Best Picture.

Verdict

Slumdog Millionaire reached me completely on an emotional level. Its life story, romance and unusual construction work convincingly together. The harshness of some experiences makes the hopeful moments stronger rather than smaller. I highly recommend it. My rating is 9 out of 10.