Slum Weekend

Scarlett and I are going to start the weekend off with Scumbag Slumdog Millionaire, the latest film from Danny Boyle, which is getting all kinds of Oscar buzz. His last film, Sunshine, was in my opinion the best film of 2007, and sorely overlooked, plus his pedigree of Trainspotting and 28 Days Later only bolsters his cred for me. Review to follow...

UPDATE: Scumdog Millionaire - best movie of 2008. But first...

Scarlett picked up a pair of tickets for the swank, new Landmark theater at the Westside Pavilion. Coming up the escalators, it's like a European train station, with an array of screens pointing to any number of theatrical destinations. This showing was in their Screening Lounge, though there are other auditoriums that allow for alcohol, and they have a wine bar. It was only 20 or so seats - actually two and three person leather sofas and loveseats, so it was like watching a movie at home with the most butch set up.

The reason for Slumdog Millionaire's success is that it hits all major points - well written, beautiful cinematography, excellent action, compelling story, engaging characters, and a balance of humor and seriousness. Screw those other stories with their one-note of redemption or human tragedy, this film has so much more. It is not a shining portrait of India - the poverty and desperation that exists for the lower and no class elements of Mumbai is not hidden or played down. But the survival mechanism for Jamal and his brother Salim lead them down different paths, and both find the best way they can to escape the slums. When they return to the construction and restoration of their city, they too are changed.

One of the best devices in the film was the juxtaposition of scenes and information. Without detracting from the joy of watching the plot unfold, I will just say that the non-linear storytelling serves the movie greatly and, like The Usual Suspects, visually illustrates a narrative as it effects real-time events. And while there are fantastic performances throughout the movie, the young actors playing the brothers at their earliest ages are amazing. I recommend the film highly to all who want to enjoy a well balanced, complete movie.