Can you feel it?

Rating: Null/10 (20 March 2002)

Billy Elliott is one of those movies that you watch to pick you up when you're feeling down. What a pleasure it was watching this movie even though it's not set during the best of times for these characters. We come in as they are struggling to confront a recent death and overwhelming poverty all the while trying to retain some sense of dignity.
Here we have young Billy living in a coal-mining town in Northern England with his father, brother and grandmother. His mother has recently died and his father and brother are on strike from the mines. Billy is in charge of looking after his grandmother, who is losing her mind while the others are at the picket lines. Billy is also is at that sexually awkward, adolescent stage. Times are tough to say the least. As Billy struggles to deal with all that is going on in his life he discovers he has a natural talent to dance. Urged on by the local ballet instructor (played wonderfully by Julie Walters), Billy faces the disapproval from his family for his love of dancing.
When I first read about the story line for this movie I literally rolled my eyes. I thought, `oh boy, one of those predictable feel good movies'. And while it is a feel good movie, it was not as predictable as I thought it would be. And it was getting such great reviews from the critics and my friends alike, I took a chance. I'm glad I did.
The cast really shines in this one, especially Jamie Bell. What a breath of fresh air he is to the field of young actors today. He really is a great talent.
Bottom line: If you like movies with likeable characters sat in a nice mix of comedy and drama with just a dash of inspiration then this one might be for you. Easily one of my favorite movies. The soundtrack is great also. That's my take. What's yours?