Techniques
What camera technique is used to show Billy’s isolation in the boxing gym?
Wide shot
Who says: "Just because I like ballet doesn’t mean I’m a poof"?
Billy
What is a central theme involving Billy and his father?
Parent-child relationships and support.
What genre best describes the soundtrack of Billy Elliot?
A mix of glam rock, punk, and classical
What scene marks the turning point in Billy’s dancing journey?
The moment Mrs. Wilkinson sees Billy’s potential and offers to teach him.
How does mise-en-scène communicate class in the opening sequence?
Dirty, cluttered bedroom and working-class clothing reflect economic hardship and social class.
"Lads do football... or boxing... or wrestling, not friggin’ ballet." What does this quote reveal about gender norms?
Reflects traditional masculinity and gender expectations in working-class culture.
How is the theme of identity explored in the film?
Billy’s struggle to embrace his authentic self despite societal and familial pressure.
What song plays during the audition montage and what is its effect?
“Town Called Malice” — shows fast-paced montage, reflecting urgency and ambition.
Describe the significance of the audition scene in London.
Symbolises sacrifice, family unity, and Billy stepping into the wider world.
Explain the use of sound and movement in the ‘angry dance’ scene.
Jackie, Billy’s dad, says this when he’s frustrated about Billy’s choices and rebellion.
"Sort yourself out, Billy!" – Who says this and in what context?
Jackie, Billy’s dad, says this when he’s frustrated about Billy’s choices and rebellion.
How is the tension between tradition and change represented?
The mining strike vs. ballet shows the conflict between tradition and personal dreams.
How is T. Rex’s “Cosmic Dancer” symbolic in the film?
Symbolises Billy’s growing connection to dance and personal identity.
What role does the kitchen scene play in developing family conflict?
Shows generational and ideological conflict about Billy’s dancing and identity.
What editing technique is used to contrast Billy’s world with the strike?
Cross-cutting between dance practice and picket lines contrasts creativity with social struggle.
Analyse the quote: "I don’t want a childhood. I want to be a ballet dancer."
Reveals Billy’s intense passion and maturity, contrasting childhood expectations.
In what ways is the theme of resilience portrayed?
Billy pushes through rejection, grief, and poverty to follow his dream.
What does the use of classical music during the ballet sequences convey?
Conveys beauty, discipline, and emotional release — contrasting his harsh reality.
How does the Christmas performance scene explore class and aspiration?
Highlights Billy’s talent but also economic limitations and class-based ridicule.
How does Daldry use symbolism in the final scene of adult Billy performing?
Adult Billy leaping into the air symbolizes freedom, transformation, and fulfilment.
You. Out. Now." – What’s the context and significance of this line?
Said by Jackie to Michael; shows the discomfort with queerness in their community.
How is the theme of masculinity deconstructed in the film?
Billy and Michael challenge gender roles and expectations through dance and self-expression.
Discuss the impact of silence or ambient sound in key emotional moments.
Silence and ambient sound heighten emotional realism and intimacy, especially in emotional or private moments.
Evaluate the role of the ‘angry dance’ scene in expressing Billy’s emotional state.
Reflects his bottled-up emotion and powerlessness through aggressive movement and music.