FIGHTING CONVENTION, REALISING DREAMS
Theatre director Stephen Daldry’s debut film is the story of a young lad realising his dream to become a ballet dancer despite his father’s disapproval. Set in north-east England during the 1984-85 coalminers’ strike, the film explores issues of relationships and gender identity.
First-time actor Jamie Bell plays 11-year-old Billy, whose mother has recently died. Both his father Jackie and brother Tony are among those on the picket lines, leaving Billy at home to look after his grandmother.
Sent to boxing lessons by his father, Billy is more interested in the ballet class being taught in the same gym by dance teacher Mrs Wilkinson (Julie Walters). She encourages him to join the class, and convinces him to work towards an audition for the Royal Ballet School. But when Billy’s father discovers that his son is learning ballet and not boxing, he is furious.
Featuring exuberant dance sequences, a great soundtrack and fine performances from the cast, this Oscar-nominated film is a genuine ‘feelgood’ movie with serious intent.

UK 2000
Drama
110 mins
Director: Stephen Daldry

Also showing at:

Cork UnReel Festival (7th – 12th October) 12th October
For further information contact Helen Barry on (021) 4271711

Garter Lane Theatre, Waterford October 5th
For further information contact Caroline Senior on (051) 855038

Letterkenny Cinema tbc January
Booking through fiieducation on (01) 6795744