Slumdog to close LFF

4 September 2008 02:57pm

Director Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire has been chosen to close the Times BFI London Film Festival this year.

The film follows 18-year-old Jamal (Dev Patel), an orphan from the slums of Mumbai who finds himself just one question away from winning a fortune on India's Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

When he's arrested on suspicion of cheating, Jamal tells the police the incredible story of his life on the streets, and of the girl he loved and lost.

But what is a kid with no interest in money doing on the show? And how does he know all the answers?

When the new day dawns and Jamal returns to answer the final question, the police and 60 million viewers tune in to find out.

Boyle said he's "delighted" the film - adapted for the screen from Vikas Swarup's bestselling novel Q And A - will receive its European premiere at the festival in October.

"I hope that Londoners will respond to this story about another great megatropolis - Mumbai, 'the Maximum City'," he said.

Sandra Hebron, the festival's artistic director, said: "We're thrilled to be closing our festival with this latest film from one of the UK's most talented and versatile directors.

"Pulling together a wealth of talent from two continents to tell this moving and truly contemporary tale, Slumdog Millionaire will bring this year's festival to a vibrant and cheering close."

The London Film Festival runs from October 15 - 30.

© The Press Association