Billy Elliot
Originally published on social media on October 24th, 2022
I was listening to classical music this evening when I heard the most famous piece from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake start to play. I’ve heard it so often and it has reminded me of so many different things throughout the years. However, this film—“Billy Elliot”— created a permanent impression in my mind and now when I hear this piece from Swan Lake, I think of the scene it belongs to in the film.
“Billy Elliot” is not a film that I would watch all the time, but I do find myself watching it once a year around this season or when I need a little inspiration. This story is incredible. Here we have a young man who comes from a poor family with limited views of what a man could (and should be), & Billy chooses to follow his dreams anyway. The portrayal of the work, the gumption, and the patience it takes to follow your dream and to become REALLY GOOD at something is displayed very realistically in this film. That’s the funny thing about dreams…they really do involve hard work, but it’s worth it and when it isn’t worth it, you find a new dream.
There are inspiring moments in this film accompanied by awkward or challenging moments. Sometimes you feel a little sad or mad, and other times you feel glad (forgive my rhyming, it just felt right). Throughout Billy’s journey, people disappoint him and other times they rise above any expectations he had. The reversal is true as well, and observing that is a powerful reminder of the value of responsibility, accountability, kindness, and letting people in.
Looking at the artistic elements of this film, the cinematography is lovely in how it displays all the dancing and has a nostalgic graininess to it that films made before the late 2000’s have. The color scheme and lighting perfectly fit the tone portrayed in the script. The acting is sensational! Julie Walters is tougher in this film, which shows what a great actress she is because her normal demeanor is loving and gentle. Jamie Bell is already a great actor, but his performance in this film is extraordinary as he tunes into every emotion without shame and with full commitment. All other actors perform with great authenticity as well.