'Slumdog Millionaire' Grows Up: Top 5 Films with Dev Patel

24 April 2025 03:00

Global Look Press — Dev Patel and still from the movie 'The Personal History of David Copperfield' (2019)

The actor has long outgrown familiar genre clichés.

Today, Dev Patel turns 35 — the age when it's time to stop remembering him as "that guy from Slumdog Millionaire." Over the past 15 years, he has become one of the most versatile and charismatic actors of his generation. He isn't afraid of challenging roles, conveys emotions without words, and chooses projects as if he has an inbuilt detector for quality cinema. To celebrate his birthday, here are five of his best performances according to KinoPoisk (and no, Slumdog Millionaire won't be on the list — you've seen it a hundred times):

Lion (2016) — IMDb: 8.2/10 — When one role changes everything

After Slumdog Millionaire, if anyone still doubted Patel's talent, Lion put those doubts to rest. In this real-life inspired drama about a lost boy, Patel's performance is so powerful that even the most skeptical viewers will find themselves in tears.

Hotel Mumbai (2018) — IMDb: 8.0/10 — A gripping thriller

still from Hotel Mumbai Based on the 2008 terrorist attack on the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Patel plays a hotel employee trying to save guests. His portrayal of a terrified but determined man stands out in this real-time thriller.

The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015) — IMDb: 7.7/10 — The misunderstood genius

still rom The Man Who Knew Infinity Patel plays Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, whose genius changed early 20th-century science. His performance adds depth to the character, making Ramanujan come alive as passionate and vulnerable.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011) — IMDb: 7.4/10 — British charm with Indian flair

still from The Best Exotic Marigold Hote In this comedy, Patel plays Sonny, a hopeful hotel manager who believes "everything will be alright," even when things go wrong. His charisma makes Sonny one of the film's most memorable characters.

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) — IMDb: 7.4/10 — Wes Anderson + Patel = magic

still from The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar In this Wes Anderson short, Patel plays a charming, slightly naive character who captivates with his warmth. The film is a visual masterpiece, with Patel's performance stealing the show.

Images credit: Global Look Press — Dev Patel and still from the movie 'The Personal History of David Copperfield' (2019)

Satenik Tovmasyan Aleksey Pletkin

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