Thursday, February 19, 2009
Associated Press

Here is what some film experts have to say about the favourites at the Oscars this year.

It's not the best movie of the year, but Slumdog Millionaire is the unlikely, undeniable juggernaut. And so, after winning every other top prize week after week throughout awards season, Slumdog will win the Academy Award for best picture.

What's intriguing about "Slumdog," though, is that it's not the most traditional best-picture pick. Not by a long shot. In its own small, vibrant way, though, Slumdog is exceptionally well made. It has a great energy about it, an inventive narrative structure and an immediacy that's bracing.

Above all else, though, its ultimate uplift is what wins people over. Would Slumdog win the Oscar any other year? Maybe not. But maybe it's exactly what we need right now, and that's its lasting appeal.

Pics: Stars galore at Slumdog premiere

Pics: Team Slumdog celebrates

Pics: India shines at the Golden Globes