Slumdog Millionaire

Why Is Slumdog Millionaire Rated R?

This look at the fictitious life of a young man who appears on India’s version of Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? deals with many mature situations and themes. Children are depicted living in a garbage dump before being abducted by adults claiming to operate an orphanage. Other scenes show children being physically abused, including having their eyes seared with heat and acid, and being beaten and verbally demeaned. Girls are groomed for sexual services, which are verbally discussed by adults and children throughout the film. Adults are also shown in violent situations involving knives, guns and hand-to-hand combat. Muslims (adults and children) are subjected to religious persecution—their homes are set on fire, some are beaten and people are seen with clothing in flames. A scene shows a young adult being tortured by electricity and near drowning (these tactics are administered by a police authority). Language includes two sexual expletives, about a dozen scatological slang words, some mild profanities and names of deity, along with some crude sexual anatomical terms. Alcohol and tobacco use is depicted, including by children and teens.