Slumdog Millionaire

A great movie, especially a drama, has a compelling story, a group of interesting characters and some interesting twists. Slumdog Millionaire has all that and more. It is built around a story of a person from India's slums competing for the equivalent of the top prize in India's version of the show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire." The powers that be don't believe that the main character could actually win the big prize without help. The prize is $20 million rupees - worth about $416,000.

At one level this is a classic love story. But there is a more fundamental backstory - was the winner smart, lucky or was it fate that determined the outcome? While the story revolves around two brothers and a young woman from the slums, the supporting characters, including the game show host, add to the interest in the story.

A couple of cautions about the movie. First, because it is written about three characters from the slums - a lot of the beginning of the movie is violent - none of it is unnecessary but some viewers might be shocked. Get over it, all of the scenes are integral to the story. Second, the story unfolds in an intriguing manner. I don't want to give away much about the story - but it keeps you interested to understand what in the world will happen next. Finally, once the movie starts you will be held in your seat. So don't think that this movie will allow you to get up in the middle for a bio-break or additional snack. At the end of the movie, which has a wonderful conclusion, this was a movie where I wanted to linger. Good thing the credits part of the movie is also entertaining.

Run, don't walk to see this movie.