Pirouetting onto the silver screen at the turn of the millennium, Billy Elliot’s story is one that still resonates 25 years on and, of course, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year. Returning to the big screen, you can book your tickets to watch Billy Elliot at Cineworld now, with screenings happening from 26-28th September.
Need a reminder of why Billy Elliot has paved the way and inspired so many young boys to live out their dancing dreams? We’ve given you seven facts that'll convince you to book on to watch Billy Elliot at Cineworld this week.
It’s a story that continues to fight stereotypes and celebrate difference
At its heart, Billy Elliot breaks down barriers and gendered stereotypes for young men who wish to enter predominantly female-dominated spaces. In this case, the world of ballet. While men and boys wishing to dance were once seen as effeminate or presumed to be homosexual, Billy Elliot challenges these views and showcases the strength and determination required in ballet.
Billy Elliot gives a voice to the working class
Set in the North East of England in County Durham during the miners strike of 1984-1985, Billy Elliot finds its roots in the working class – an often unrepresented group in the arts both in the stories told and the talent cast. But Billy Elliot brings it to life on the silver screen and challenges the views and stereotypes both of the community and those held within it.
Filming took place where the musical is set
Speaking of representation, not only was Billy Elliot set in the North East but filming also took place there, too. This may seem obvious, but so often films aren’t shot in the actual places they’re meant to be. In this case, though, Billy Elliot was filmed in County Durham, including in the Easington Colliery area, in Dawdon, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, and Ellington and Lynemouth Colliery.
The film came before the stage show
It seems practically unheard of these days, but Stephen Daldry and Lee Hall’s film actually came before the stage show of Billy Elliot. Adapted from a play Lee Hall wrote, originally called Dancer, following the film’s release in 2000, it then was turned into a novel in 2001, written by Melvin Burgess, before it got the West End treatment...
Billy Elliot isn’t currently on stage
Five years after the film's release, it was adapted for the West End in 2005, and went on to have productions around the world. However, Billy Elliot currently doesn’t have a permanent home in London, and isn’t touring either. So if you want to see a big production, head to your local Cineworld and watch Billy Elliot on the big screen.
Billy Elliot is an award-winning film
Don’t trust us? Let the long list of awards and accolades speak for itself. This includes Jamie Bell taking home the BAFTA for Best Actor in a Leading Role, becoming the youngest ever actor to win the award. It also earned nominations at the Oscars that year, as well as sweeping the London Film Critics’ Circle and the British Independent Film Awards.
The cast is top-tier
If all that wasn’t enough, Billy Elliot features a small but incredible cast. As well as Jamie Bell, Billy Elliot is taught by Julie Walters as dance teacher Sandra Wilkinson, while Gary Stevenson plays Billy’s father.
Book your tickets to the 25th Anniversary of Billy Elliot now.
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