Thematically, tonally 'Slumdog Millionaire,' 'Lion' are completely different: Dev Patel

Eight years after his debut in 'Slumdog Millionaire,' Dev Patel is back to portray a life changing journey of an Indian boy, in Nicole Kidman-starrer 'Lion.'

Though it portrays journey of an Indian boy, the two movies should not be compared, reports the BBC.

"Thematically and tonally the films are completely different," said the 26-year-old actor after the film's world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Garth Davis directed 'Lion' tells the true story of Saroo, a five-year-old boy who becomes tragically separated from his family after he boards a train and is transported hundreds of miles from his rural village.

He ends up being adopted by a couple in Australia, played by Kidman and David Wenham.

Twenty-five years later Saroo attempts to use Google Earth to find his way home.

Reportedly, the emotional touch in the movie left audiences all in tears at a press screening in Toronto on Sunday.

Patel plays the adult Saroo, while newcomer Sunny Pawar puts in an unforgettable performance as the young boy.

Speaking about his fifth film shot in India, Patel said, "I spent most of my existence in school trying to shun my heritage to avoid getting beaten up or bullied or just to fit in."

"And then I discovered Bombay with [director] Danny Boyle for Slumdog. It struck like lightning. It's so enthralling for me to go back," he said, adding, "Working in India is beautifully chaotic.