So if you hate the boredom that comes AFTER the turkey, and have had just about all you need of  that sister-in-law, the hostess, here’s what to do: Go see "Slumdog Millionaire."

Even the title evokes the movie … all juxtaposition … impoverished glitz … a film that takes place in Mumbai, India (and, not unlike what "Lost in Translation" did for Tokyo, you never have to go there once you’ve experienced this movie), with unknown stars and screenwriters and based on a never-heard-of-it book that galvanizes. The plot: An impoverished teenager wins the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" How did he do it? This movie is dazzling, terrifying, jazzy, funny, exciting, authentic, bold, uplifting, depressing, romantic and dizzying. And it’s all cut and diced into bite-sized sections set against dynamic music that keeps you squirming, salivating, screaming and laughing. Danny Boyle, the guru British director here, has created a miracle.

I think I lost five pounds watching this movie … such was the tension and thrill. It’s perfect after that predictable pumpkin pie.