BILLY ELLIOT

SYNOPSIS: A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected love of dance and the disintegration of his family.

BOTTOM LINE: An uplifting film that explores the joys of self-expression and the magic inherent in accomplishing ones dreams. Jamie Bell is astounding as Billy Elliot, a young Irish boy more interested in ballet than boxing, much to his father's dismay. He's forced to keep his new love a secret from his loutish older brother and overbearing father, both striking mine workers struggling to keep the family afloat. Billy has no idea where this desire to dance comes from, but it's clear to both himself and his teacher that he has talent to spare. Once his secret is discovered, his father forbids him to continue. That is until Billy has the chance to escape their dying town and become something more than just a mine worker. Billy's transition from rough and tumble kid to professional dancer is anything but easy, however, it's clear from the start he taps into something special that must be expressed. Bell gives one of the most honest and natural performances I've ever seen from a child actor. The fact that he nails the dancing as well is beyond impressive. This is not a complicated or deep tale, but the theme of struggling to achieve one's dreams is one most of us can relate to. Daldry mixes just the right amount of humor, heart and drama to make this a thoroughly enjoyable, if not overly memorable flick.