Slumdog Millionaire Director Danny Boyle Admits He’d Now Hand Film to Indian Filmmaker, Stars Dev Patel in Oscar-Winning Hit

Danny Boyle, the acclaimed director behind the Oscar-winning 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire, has recently shared his thoughts on how he would approach the movie differently if made today. In an interview with The Guardian, Boyle admitted that he would now prefer to hand the reins to an Indian filmmaker rather than directing it himself.

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He explained that making the film with a non-Indian director and an English-speaking cast brought an outsider’s perspective, which he now sees as a flawed approach — bordering on what some might call “cultural appropriation.” Boyle’s comments reflect a deeper awareness of the importance of authentic storytelling, especially when it involves representing a culture that’s not your own.

Dev Patel in Slumdog Millionaire – Breakout Role and the Film’s Impact

Slumdog Millionaire tells the inspiring story of a young man from Mumbai’s slums, played by Dev Patel, who competes on a popular quiz show with a life-changing prize. The film also features notable performances by Freida Pinto, Anil Kapoor, and the late Irrfan Khan.

The movie won critical acclaim worldwide, including several Academy Awards, and launched Dev Patel’s international career. However, it also faced criticism, particularly in India, where some viewers felt the film leaned into stereotypes and presented a “white man’s imagined India” — focusing heavily on poverty and hardship.

A Sequel in the Works, But Without Boyle

A sequel to Slumdog Millionaire is currently in development, with producers Swati Shetty and Grant Kessman’s Bridge7 banner acquiring the rights. However, given Boyle’s recent reflections and changed perspective, it seems unlikely that he will return as director for the follow-up.

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