Billy Elliot

I didn't know just how much I LOVE this film. I definitely appreciate this film a whole lot more because I'm older, even just a little, and I will probably appreciate it even more when I'm much older. I love what the film stands for and it works incredibly well with the time it's set as it emphasises the struggle, much more than it is now. It covers themes from breaking stereotypical social and gender norms, not caring about what others think, and how the people around Billy still genuinely care for him, even if its not always shown. I felt that the handling of the miners' strikes grounds the film in reality, adding real pressure to Billy and his family, giving reason to the way his family acts towards Billy (except his Grandmother). His relationship with his father and brother are developed naturally where the ending feels earned and is genuinely heartwarming compared to the heavy mood of the beginning. We even get a happy resolution where they come to a realisation that Billy will always be a part of them, no matter what he does, and no matter what they think of him. Closer to the ending you can see their relationships getting warmer, for example instead of Tony telling Billy to 'F*ck off' when trying to talk to him, he actually initiates the conversation and is genuine. The soundtrack for this film is brilliant, from classical piano pieces to T-Rex and The Jam. They all fit perfectly, enhancing the scenes making them have more energy or feel more intimate - the 'Town Called Malice' part definitely has lots of energy.