Jenny's Film Pick: Slumdog Millionaire

I finally saw Slumdog Millionaire after solid recommendations from two people who I trust completely with having good taste in film - Wes Johnson (who is an incredible visual artist in both photography and film), and Anita Hildreth (who I work with). It is a film that about 30 minutes in, I wasn't sure I would like in the end. It was raw and harsh, but when it ended, I loved it, and the more I think about it, and talk to Bryan about it, the better it becomes.

One thing that I loved about this film is that I went into it knowing little to nothing about the story - and I highly recommend doing so if you haven't looked into it already. Why am I happy about this? It is so rare anymore that one can go to a film without having seen dozens of trailers for said film, and thus knowing a good bit about what the plot is going to be, and what impression one will get upon viewing. So, any chance I can get to go into a film in this manner, I will take it and run with it. 

So, what can I tell you? I can say that you should see it if you can take films that aren't all sunshine and rainbows. I can say that this film is intense, and beautifully filmed. I can say the editing of the story is brilliant, and incredibly enjoyable (as well as the acting and cinematography). I can say that the film can provide you with intense post-viewing discussions of poverty, gangs, money, and love. I can also say that one of the most brilliant things about this film is that it could take place anywhere - the themes are universal - but it happens to take place in India. Finally, I can say that you should stick with the film through the hardships to its main character, as the destination is worth the trip.

If you have seen this film and enjoyed it as I did, I would like to recommend that you view Monsoon Wedding. It is much lighter, but a wonderful film and I guarantee that you will love it as much as I do. 

Until next time, happy viewing!