Slumdog Millionaire

On the surface, “Slumdog Millionaire” is your typical rags-to-riches tale in a nutshell, but dig a little deeper and you’ll uncover a cleverly crafted, visually stunning picture that showcases filmmaking on a grand level. However, don’t be fooled by the cheerful mood displayed in a majority of the movie’s trailers. At times, the film is far from the gleeful product the studio has made it out to be. In fact, there are a notable number of scenes that are enveloped in such overwhelming darkness that we sometimes question which genre the film we’re watching falls under. Luckily, Danny Boyle has a natural talent when it comes to presentation. Even in the apocalyptic events of “28 Days Later”, the director exercises good humor and comfort amongst his characters. While the fear and tragedy in his film’s are unsettling, Boyle’s remarkable filmmaking techniques assure us that happiness awaits. With “Slumdog Millionaire”, the director continues this trend.

Simon Beaufoy deserves a majority of the credit for the effect “Slumdog Millionaire” will have on viewers. His script is marvelous, a genuine work of art. It would seem merely impossible to come by originality at this day in age. From the countless remakes having already been released over the past few years and those currently in production to the dozen sequels kicked out year after year, Beaufoy’s screenplay is a dream come true for movie goers. While the direction is superb and the actors are convincing, without this flawless script, “Slumdog Millionaire” would be merely another studio release to come and go through theaters and collect dust on DVD shelves until the end of time. The style enclosed in each scene is absorbing. From the constant flashbacks, to the events unfolding in present time, there’s not a moment in the film that leaves the viewer short of captivated. Of course, the cinematography is what really captures Beaufoy’s description. The rapid camera work bond beautifully with the fast-paced story giving the entire movie a spectacular over glow. Throw in a combination of hip, yet unique tracks and edgy instrumentals to overlap the action and there really isn’t much room left for “Slumdog Millionaire” to go wrong.

In closing, “Slumdog Millionaire” has best picture written all over it. While “The Dark Knight” still remains the best picture of 2008, Boyle’s movie undoubtedly solidifies its position as the runner-up. Though dark and uncomforting at times, viewers will be left satisfied and gracious the films like this still come along, even if such occasions are seldom. Had it been any other year, “Slumdog Millionaire” would be well deserving of Academy Award for best motion picture. It’s a compelling, genuine film that’s definitely a must see!