Billy Elliott
Visual Literacy
Human Experiences
Film Features
Random
100

What is the name of Billy's best friend in the film?

Michael 

100

Identify one visual technique you could use to analysis the purpose of an image. 

Correct responses could include any of: symbolism, colour, layout, text, salience, body language, gaze, vector lines etc. 
100

Identify an example of a human experience in Billy Elliot?

Correct responses could include: pursuit of dreams, resilience, loss, grief, identity exploration, family dynamics, friendship, coping with adversity etc. 

100

What is the purpose of a close up shot?

Close-up shots are used to show detail and convey the emotions of characters.

100

What is the only country that is also a continent?

Australia

200

Describe the setting of the film Billy Elliot?

The film is set in a coal mining town in Northern England during the 1984 miners' strike.

200

How can colour influence the perception of a visual text?

Colour can evoke emotions and convey messages. For example, red can indicate passion or urgency, while blue might convey calmness or trust. The choice of colour can significantly affect how an audience perceives and responds to a visual text.

200

How does Billy's relationship with his father evolve throughout the film in response to their shared experiences?

Initially, Billy's father is resistant to Billy's passion for dance due to traditional views on masculinity. However, as the film progresses and he witnesses Billy's dedication and talent, their relationship evolves into one of understanding and support, culminating in a moment of acceptance.

200

What is the difference between diegetic and non-diegetic sound in "Billy Elliot," and how do these sound types enhance the film's storytelling?

Diegetic sound refers to sounds that originate from the world of the film, such as characters talking or the sound of dancing, while non-diegetic sound includes background music and narration that the characters cannot hear. In "Billy Elliot," diegetic sound enhances the realism of Billy's experience, while non-diegetic sound underscores emotional moments and highlights key themes.

200

Which iconic Australian band wrote the song "Highway to Hell"?

ACDC

300

Which character says ""Ballet is for girls, not lads, lads do boxing, football or wrestling, not friggin' ballet," 

Jackie Elliot, Billy's father.

300

What is meant by symbolism?

Symbols represent an object, action, idea or concept.

300

In what ways does Billy's working-class background influence his perception of pursuing a career in dance?

Billy's working-class background instils in him a sense of duty and loyalty to his family, making his pursuit of ballet feel like a conflict with societal expectations and the traditional roles assigned to men in his community.

300

What effect does the use of low-angle shots have on the perception of a character?

Low-angle shots make a character appear larger, more powerful, or more dominant, influencing how the audience perceives their strength or authority.

300

Solve this riddle: What gets wetter the more it dries?

A towel

400

How does Billy describe the way dancing makes him feel?

Correct answers include any of the following:

"like electricity"

"like fire in my body"

"like Im flying like a bird"

400

Explain vector lines

Vectors are lines that leads our eyes from one element to another. It is the line that our eyes take when looking at an image. Composers deliberately direct our reading path through the vectors. For example a tree lined road/path. 

400

Discuss how the theme of financial trauma is represented in "Billy Elliot" and its effect on the characters' lives.

The financial trauma of the miners' strike and its impact on the family creates emotional turmoil, particularly for Billy's father, who struggles with loss and change. This trauma influences their dynamics and Billy's determination to find solace in dance as a means of coping.

400

What does the term "mise-en-scène" refer to in film?

Mise-en-scène refers to the arrangement of everything that appears in the frame, including setting, lighting, props, costumes, and the actors' performances.

400

What is the largest planet in the solar system?

Jupiter

500

What pivotal event occurs at the end of the film regarding Billy's future in dance, and how does it symbolize his journey?

At the end of the film, Billy auditions for the Royal Ballet School in London, which symbolizes his triumph over adversity, his commitment to his dream, and his rejection of societal and familial constraints regarding masculinity and career choices.

500

Define salience

Salience is the part that your eyes are first drawn to in an image. What elements stand out and attract the viewer’s attention. Colour, image and layout determine what the salient image is.

500

In what ways does the character of Mrs. Wilkinson represent the theme of mentorship in human experiences?

Mrs. Wilkinson serves as a mentor to Billy, providing guidance, encouragement, and belief in his talent. Her supportive role represents the positive impact that mentorship can have on an individual's journey, helping them to navigate challenges and pursue their goals.

500

Describe the mise-en-scène of the opening scene of Billy Elliot, including its impact/purpose. 

In the opening scene of "Billy Elliot," the mise-en-scène establishes the film's tone and context, effectively setting up themes of class struggle, identity, and the conflict between personal dreams and societal expectations. The scene features Billy jumping on his bed, a long shot highlighting the unrealistically vast backdrop of his wallpaper, creating a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere. This contrasts with the overcrowded kitchen, a traditionally female space, which emphasizes the realities of Billy's working-class life and his responsibilities of caring for his Grandma. 

500

What is the hardest natural substance on earth?

Diamond