What's so special about this one?

Rating: 7/10 (24 November 2000)

This is a decent drama, nothing more, nothing less. The acting is very very good, especially by the young lead, Jamie Bell. The dancing too is of a high quality and the film has got its heart on the right place. So what's wrong with it? First of all, the story seems all too familiar. People looking for a way out of poverty, mines being closed, a stubborn father, a crazy grandmother(is this the "funny" character in the film?),etc. Have they seen the underrated BRASSED OFF, or the slightly overrated THE FULL MONTY? I bet they watched it very carefully. Plus, the story is too dramatic, this is clearly made to make people cry. But...it doesn't work. An example of a film that DOES work(and produces tears): DANCER IN THE DARK. Finally, it's way too predictable: boy is a loser in boxing, but appears to be a talent in ballet...you can guess the rest. Did I already mention his father is against his choice?
BILLY ELLIOT is a decent film, as long as you don't expect too much of it, as I did. Then it will be a big disappointment. But apparently it looks good, when you say you liked that "latest British social drama". 6/10