If you have a moment this holiday season, you should go see Slumdog Millionaire <http://www.foxsearchlight.com/slumdogmillionaire/>, a fantastic new movie directed by Danny Boyle that opened in the U.S. a few weeks ago. Set in contemporary Mumbai, the movie tells a wonderful story about beating the odds and coming out on top. It's both inspiring and touching at the same time.
The movie also features an excellent soundtrack that was put together by famed Bollywood composer A.R. Rahman. His original score perfectly echoes the modern-day hustle and bustle of the sprawling town of Mumbai, fusing intoxicating traditional Indian rhythms with Western hip hop beats. A.R. Rahman worked together with M.I.A. to create "O... Saya" that is heard at pivotal scenes in the movie and reflects the raw realism of Mumbai's street scenes. M.I.A. and A.R. Rahman met in Mumbai last year when the Sri Lankan singer spent time in Rahman's studio to record "Kala." In an interview with URB Magazine, M.I.A. referred to the producer as "the Indian Timbaland," which gives you an idea of what a unique talent he is. M.I.A. obviously jumped at the chance to work on "O... Saya" with the famed composer. Rahman says in a press release, "She's a real powerhouse. Somebody played me her CD and I thought, `Who is this girl? She came here and knew all my work, had followed my work for ages. I said, `Cut the crap, this "my idol" crap. You have to teach me.'" Listen to a clip of "O... Saya" by A.R. Rahman ft. M.I.A.: http://www.arjanwrites.com/arjanwrites/2008/12/slumdog.html -- regards, Vithur
