Slumdog Millionaire - Worth Every Penny!

Director Danny Boyle brings us a slice of life that most Westerners have never seen.   Set in the poorest neighborhoods of Mumbai - Slumdog Millionaire is intended to give you a sense of hope and aspiration - even when you are challenged with the greatest odds.   There are social, political, and religious themes that are pillars behind the pain and suffering that is part of everyday life for millions and millions of Indians.    The film is extremely sad and somehow at the same time - uplifting.   The cast is made up largely of unknown actors that manage to pull at your heart strings.  Dev Patel plays Jamal - the boy from the slums that manages to be a contestant on "Who wants to be a Millionaire" and wins!  Unfortunately, if you are a "slumdog" is this society - you don't win anything.  Freida Pinto plays Latika, who is the only person or thing that can bring Jamal hope for a better tomorrow.    Anil Kapoor, a major name in Indian Film is the only movie veteran in the film.   He takes the Regis Philbin role of Millionaire host.   Freida Pinto & Dev Patel

One of the most impressive performances to me is that of little Rubiana Ali -who plays Latika as a small girl.   In real life Rubiana is a child living in the poorest conditions of Mumbai's notorious slums.    It is amazing to see this little girl bring her unbelievable smile and joyful soul to the big screen.   The film is a must see - as it is being dubbed the feel good film of the year - but only in America during our unusual economic times - could this movie be called "feel good".   "Phone a friend" and go see this film!