Kes

A predetermined, futile, and unhappy existence for the working-class youth. Preparation for menial labour and compliance. Boys like Billy are systemically trained to fail. Institutions such as the schoolrooms and coal mines depicted in the film rely on corporal punishment and strict control to fracture individuality rather than to promote it. The contrast between the bleak, cold, working environment and the lush and organic bond that Billy has with his Kestrel reflects his longing for freedom from the system he is trapped in. Kes also represents the nature of Billy's conditioning. The bird's "freedom" after it is captured is only the result of human training. It flies only on a creance and returns only because of the expectation of food. It is apparent the feeling of choice that is represented both in Billy and Kes' existence is a result of dependence. The systems that they live in are a vacuum that prevent them for obtaining any real liberty. Billy also speaks about respect when caring for Kes. He says you can't "break" a hawk like a dog and that it requires patience. This directly highlights the failures that are produced from an institution that relies on forced submission to authority. This film felt a lot like Bicycle Thieves (1948), with it's raw honesty and down to earth cast. There are many small moments that build such a colourful collage of feelings and thoughts that are still potent and relevant.