“When we started out, we had no stars, we had no power or muscle. We didn’t have enough money, really, to do what we wanted to do. But what we had was a script that inspired mad love in everyone who read it.”
- Christian Colson, producer


Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes

I’ve only heard about the movie in passing. Never even seen the trailer, actually. You know how they always show upcoming movie trailers at the cinemas before a movie starts? Slumdog Millionaire wasn’t one of them. Well, maybe the movies I saw were not of the privileged ones.

Anyhooo… I got to watch the movie (on dvd) last Saturday afternoon when I was wasting time at my friend’s place. I was quite surprised, actually, when I saw the movie was made in India. Don’t get me wrong. Indian movies are great. Easily at par with the best ones from Hollywood.

With a budget of only $15 million, however, they really did something wonderful with this film.

Needless to say, I was captured right from the start. The movie was so simple, yet so touching. I especially like the way Jamal relates his personal experiences with the questions asked during the game show. I’m sure it’s nothing new, that there are movies out there with the same concept, but how many do you think have the stories like the ones in this movie? One? Two? To me they are still unique, regardless.

I love the cinematography, the cast of unknown actors and actresses, the simplicity of the storyline, the comedies, the love… okay, the whole movie. Full stop. You just have to see it. Then you’d know why Slumdog Millionaire has won so many awards. Like these…

81st Academy Awards/The Oscar 2009

  1. Best Picture
  2. Directing
  3. Music (Original Song)
  4. Music (Original Score)
  5. Film Editing
  6. Sound Mixing
  7. Cinematography
  8. Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

Golden Globe Awards 2009

  1. Best Motion Picture – Drama
  2. Best Director – Motion Picture
  3. Best Screenplay – Motion Picture
  4. Best Original Score – Motion Picture

14th Critics’ Choice Awards 2009

  1. Best Picture
  2. Best Director
  3. Best Writer (Original or Adapted Screenplay)
  4. Best Young Actor/Actress (Under 21)
  5. Best Composer

BAFTA Awards 2009

  1. Best Film
  2. Director
  3. Adapted Screenplay
  4. Music
  5. Cinematography

For me, the part that brings back memories is the game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. Why? Because I not only got into the show, but I also managed to get onto the hot seat. Not bad, eh?   Now I will never forget what Achilles tendonitis is.

So, back to the subject.. if you have not seen Slumdog Millionaire, go see it.

Verdict:


Image courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes