The short review below comes from my film review blog, Cineplexus. Enjoy!
For two days after we left the theater, my grandma would not hear mention of the word "India" without adding "awful, awful country!" This, of course, was not the intended message of Slumdog Millionaire, nor was it the message I left the theater with. Though the film is certainly packed with some pretty grim, gross, and dangerous images of life as a "slumdog" orphan criminal, I don't think the entire nation of India can be blamed for the events of this fictional drama (sorry, Grandma).
In fact, Slumdog Millionaire triumphs because of its fantastic juxtaposition of the lows and highs of life – specifically for main characters Jamal, Salim, and Latika, but, indirectly, for everyone. In fact, the film is very clear in its suggestion that all the hardships of Jamal Malik's life can be held responsible for his happy successes.
This movie has already swept the Golden Globes, and is nominated for 10 Academy Awards. If you know anyone who has seen it (other than my grandmother), chances are they've urged you to check it out as soon as possible. I feel a little silly adding any more to the chorus, so let me just say this: Slumdog Millionaire is a tragic and triumphant story about love, endurance, and the power of kismet. Go as soon as you can, eschewing Paul Blart and Bride Wars though it may mean, and brace yourself for some intense pain and pleasure. Bring Kleenex.
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