It Is Written - Slumdog Millionaire

I saw the movie Slumdog Millionaire last night, so I'm veering away from my usual Port talk to write a post about this uplifting movie. From the director of Trainspotting and the screenwriter of The Full Monty (two of my favorites), Slumdog Millionaire is the story of desperately poor teen Jamal Malik, who advances to the 20-million-rupee final round on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Is he a genius? Is he lucky? Is he cheating? Or is it his destiny?

Jamal grew up as an orphan in brutal poverty in the slums of Mumbai with his brother and an orphaned girl named Latika. Years after Jamal is separated from them, he cannot forget Latika and goes on the show in the hope that she will see him. Just before the final question is asked, the emcee (in not-at-all-Regis-like fashion) has Jamal arrested for cheating. In flashbacks, we see how his painful experiences provided the answers to the questions. The police, finally convinced he is not cheating, allow him back on the show. Will he win the 20 million? See for yourself. This movie is a must-see for all of you looking for an inspiring and truly feel-good experience.

Although Slumdog is not from Bollywood, there is a lavish Bollywood-style song and dance number at the end of the film. People who know me know that I am a big fan of these colorful life-affirming films. If you have never seen one and are interested, Port library is showing Saawariya on November 28th at 7:30. I've seen it and it is a beautiful yet sad love story. In an India that seems similar to Times Square and Broadway's lights and glitter, Saawariya is a great introduction to the Bollywood genre.

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