Effective

Rating: 8/10 (15 May 2002)

"Billy Eliott", as everyone knows, is a straightforward, feel-good movie. It can be thought of as a cross between "Breaking Away" (young working class kids overcoming adversity for their love of sport) and "The Full Monty" (the working class is English). Personally, I like this type of film. If it works, you are inspired and leave the theater with a tear in the eye. If they fail, they're a hoot. "Billy Eliott" is one that works. You root for young Billy: to overcome the disapproval of his family and neighbors, to rise above the poverty, and to succeed and dance his way into the hearts of a grateful England. Okay, maybe not like that. "Billy Eliott" also has some depth; central characters are more thoroughly drawn. The father who is torn between his deep love for his son, and his visceral dislike of his young son's desire to be a dancer. He's also involved in a lengthy and bitter labor strike that leaves the family strapped for cash. And there is the older brother following in the father's footsteps, and the elderly grandmother with dementia.
It's not a great film, but a very effective film. You can't go wrong for a "good for the whole family" rental.