How to win big

Originally, “Slumdog Millionaire” sounded far from appealing. You mean there’s a film in which the game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” is a major part of the plot line? “No, thanks,” I thought. However, when “Slumdog Millionaire” started to win numerous awards, (and my friends’ praise) I decided to see for myself how breathtaking this movie could possibly be.

“Slumdog Millionaire” is the story of Jamal Malik (Dev Patel), a former street kid who is a contestant on the Indian version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.” Much to everyone’s surprise, he accelerates rather quickly in the game and is dangerously close to winning the grand prize-that is, until he is accused of cheating. Authorities torture Jamal until he can explain how an uneducated “slumdog” like him was able to answer the questions correctly. Professing innocence the entire time, Jamal explains he knew the answers through mere coincidence-events in his life led him to the answers.

Jamal’s story slowly unfolds as the film switches from past to present, each question provides a glimpse into his life and reveals how he knew the answer. The film explains how Jamal and his brother Salim became orphans after their mother was killed. It also shows the harsh reality of begging for money on the street under the rule of a ruthless crime lord and how he fell in love with Latika (Freida Pinto), another street child.

The film radiates high energy-its most notable aspect. Scenes of Jamal and Salim train-hopping through India, combined with powerful montages featuring music by British musician M.I.A., linger in your mind long after the credits. “Slumdog Millionaire” is also able to showcase the harsh realities of street life, as well as the fun, rebellious lifestyle. The language in the film switches from English to Hindi, which adds an element of realism. While the entire cast displays fine acting skills, the child actors steal the show. I may have been skeptical at first, but “Slumdog Millionaire” certainly proved itself to be one of the best films I have seen in the past year.

Grade: A