rudgeno1-1

To call this a return to form for Danny Boyle would do an injustice to Sunshine and 28 Days Later, two decent efforts since the marvel of British cinema that was Trainspotting (still in my top 10), but Slumdog Millionaire certainly reminds us of his directing talent.

This movie is all about fantastic direction and vision. The Indian slum setting is reminiscent of City Of God, and the manner in which a sense of adventure is brought out is excellent.

This is the story of a boy who from nothing came within one question of becoming a millionaire just through the amazing experiences life had thrown at him. The romantic element is not overblown and dealt with in appropriate delicacy but this is not a story of romance, this is a story of inspiration, achievement and dealing with what life brings, whether that be sewage or mobsters.

It will have a commercial impact simply through being an Indian set movie made by a British director, but an audience from far outside these boundaries can feel the emotional power and take inspiration from this. Impressive effort!!

I have read some quite negative reviews of this film, with many being upset by the lack of coherence with the book despite taking it's characterisations etc...I agree that the film does not follow the book particularly well but it is a film, for film watchers, not a book or a film for book readers so stop criticising it on that level. This film is entertaining from start to finish with a surprisingly clever plot considering the genre and credit must go to Ford for starring and excelling in yet another blockbuster. People may say he's not the most versatile actor in the world and I'm not going to disagree, but he does what he does brilliantly and those who don't enjoy this movie really do need a good talking to. Along with Patriot Games, this is part of an impressive set of movies which are far more entertaining than the books (perhaps thats because I'm not an avid reader) and shall keep all you viewers out there happy, if only for a short while.

This film is long and dull. As a result of the first it is dull for very long periods, which is why this film warrants no more than a miserly 1/10. The acting is competent but no more and I must confess I lost my focus towards the end due to the quite shocking lack of entertainment that can be attributed to a poor script, lacklustre direction and a plot which leaves a lot to be desired. People say Godfather is rare in that its sequel improves upon it, but that isn't hard. Al Pacino gained a big reputation from this one and I am left bemused as to why, and this unfortunate idea has meant Pacino, a mediocre actor at best has been able to infiltrate our cinema screens on far too many occasions with a distinct lack of passion or charisma in any role he displays.

Kevin Bacon delivers a performance of the highest order in this engrossing drama regarding the rehabilitation of a paedophile. Some say the subject matter meant this was overlooked in the Oscar nominations, I say the fact that this was more than half-decent movie meant it was overlooked by a pointless film ceremony which rewards big names who put in average performances. There are some uncomfortable scenes but the sheer power put forth meant I could not withdraw my eyes from the screen. Some people claim that films like this could trigger a flood of more thoughtful Hollywood investments, but as usual, there will be a while till a film like this comes out again. 10 out of 10!!