Opened: September 29, 2000

Directed by: Stephen Daldry

Starring: Jamie Bell, Julie Walters, Gary Lewis, Jamie Draven, Jean Heywood, Stuart Wells, Adam Cooper & Matthew James Thomas

Challenging the status quo of what a male should act like, Billy Elliot is an endearing film with stellar performances from leads Jamie Bell – in his film debut – and Julie Walters.

Billy Elliot (Bell) is not very good in his boxing classes and one day joins in on a ballet class that happens in the same gym following boxing. Led by Sandra Wilkinson (Julie Walters), Billy quickly finds his passion for dancing despite pushback from his father Jackie (Gary Lewis) and brother Tony (Jamie Draven).

This film lovingly tackles male stereotypes and homophobia from the start. With the loss of Billy’s mother, he grows up in a very male-dominated heterosexual household and while he himself is not gay, his dancing makes people believe is.

The chemistry between Bell and Walters is both hilarious and heartwarming.

Final say: Delightful all-around. ★★★★★