Slumdog Millionaire Details

* * * This review contains spoilers * * *ShowHide

Exaggeration of Ground Zero

I watched Slumdog Millionaire yesterday at a special screening. Though this movie is technically well made, I feel that India is portrayed in very poor light. People in western countries somehow still seem to think that India is a third world country which has nothing to offer other than snake charmers, poor tribals and Taj Mahal. I have lived in Mumbai all my life and so here is my take:

1) In the riot scene there was no need to add the comment 'These are Muslims, lets get them'. Thugs and Law Breakers should not be categorised into any religion. Violence is a reality everywhere and we understand that, but why give a religious twist to it, just because Jamal and Salim are Muslims? That tragic scene could have been shown slightly differently.

2) I hated repeatedly seeing scenes of westerners getting conned. It is as if to say that all street children in India are thugs and when you come to India, you are sure to be taken for a ride. This is not true at all.

3) Why show a dirty kitchen with Salim filling up 'fake' mineral water from a tap? C'mon guys, this is that 'stereotype western cliche' about India and Danny Boyle has proved he is no different

4) Taking a poor boy's eyeball out? I'm not saying it doesnt happen...but I'm sure not in a scale shown in the movie. Again, as if to say there is no law enforcement or they always turn a blind eye.

5) Most Police stations in Mumbai have got a facelift in the last 5 years....atleast a coat of paint!

Which Quiz Show allows a participant and host to go to the bathroom at the same time, especially in the middle of a commercial break when an answer to a question is pending? Laughable!!!!

Excellent - Best in a very long time

This is the best movie I have seen for years. I can't say too much without including spoilers, but if you were hesitating because of doubts about Danny Boyle or what you've heard about the plot, then don't.

I guarantee that anyone with a brain will love this film.

Oh, and make sure you sit through the end credits - they're a hoot.