Billy Elliot (2000)

This is a great film on many levels. On one level it shows fantastic techniques, and the importance of developing confidence and skills over time. I learnt from Billy's attitude to his teacher- to follow her advice. Also he overcomes his lack of confidence, something that I can relate to. This is even when he is subjected to being disowned by his Father, who does not accept Billy's choice at first. I think the film director is clever because he makes us as an audience feel sorry for Billy, because we are rooting for him, but at the same time we understand that from the Fathers viewpoint he is unemployed, having lost his job as a miner in a small Northern town, and he is worried his son will be made fun of, and that he will have no future and job opportunity. It is so moving when Billy comes on to the stage, I believe it is in a role in Swan Lake, and he is an adult and a successful dancer. We see it from Billy's angle looking out at the audience, and also his Mothers/ Fathers/ and teachers from the audience- this is a powerful camera technique and emotionally moving.