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Danny Boyle Says His Film "Slumdog Millionaire" Is 'Cultural Appropriation' That Couldn't Be Made Today

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Original Story by BuzzFeed
June 24, 2025
Danny Boyle Says His Film "Slumdog Millionaire" Is 'Cultural Appropriation' That Couldn't Be Made Today

Context:

Danny Boyle reflects on his 2008 film 'Slumdog Millionaire,' acknowledging that due to cultural appropriation concerns, it could not be made today. Although the film received widespread acclaim and won several Oscars, it faced criticism for not being as welcoming to Indian filmmakers who attempted similar themes. Boyle admits that while the film was considered radical at the time, it highlights the cultural baggage and outsider perspective inherent in its production. He states that the film's approach would not be feasible now, as financing for such projects would likely be unattainable. Boyle is currently promoting his new film '28 Years Later,' which he hopes will start a new trilogy with a sequel already completed by Nia DaCosta.

Dive Deeper:

  • Danny Boyle admits that 'Slumdog Millionaire,' despite its success, could not be produced in today's climate due to concerns about cultural appropriation, emphasizing a need for reflection on past creative practices.

  • The film, which won Best Director and Best Picture at the Oscars, was praised worldwide but faced criticism from Indian communities who felt that similar works from Indian filmmakers were not equally recognized.

  • Boyle acknowledges the flawed method of having a predominantly external crew working in Mumbai, which highlights the outsider's perspective and unintended cultural imposition.

  • He suggests that such cultural appropriation might have been acceptable at one time, but today's standards would not permit such projects, and they would struggle to secure funding.

  • In promoting his new film '28 Years Later,' Boyle expresses his hope for it to kickstart a new trilogy, with a sequel already shot under the direction of Nia DaCosta.

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