What's Up With the Ending?
Slumdog Millionaire's iconic finale is nothing if not memorable.
Sure it comes a little bit out of nowhere; one minute Jamal and Latika are sharing a tender moment in an empty train station—a much deserved moment of peace after they're safely reunited—and the next they're leading a sprawling throng of extras in a full-blown, raucous Bollywood dance number.
You might think that an ending like that couldn't possibly be divisive… but you'd be wrong. Slumdog Millionaire was super-polarizing, from start to busting-moves-in-a-train-depot ending.
Some people have criticized this ending, seeing it as a jarring switch from the tranquil tenderness of the final scene, and a shameless attempt to force a commercial feel-good resolution. (Source)
Others totally praise this sequence for its ability to capture the celebratory spirit and effervescence of the city and culture of Mumbai, and as a tip of the hat to Bollywood blockbusters…which never skimp on elaborately orchestrated song and dance. (Source)
Regardless of how you feel about the ending, though, you're probably going to have a hard time getting "Jai Ho" out of your head. And by "have a hard time" we mean "have fun whistling it in the shower for the next twenty years."