“I don't want a childhood. I want to be a ballet dancer.”
Welcome to Harbour Highlights, a series of cult and classic films, all handpicked by the staff of Harbour Lights. This month, Ella celebrates the 25th anniversary of a heartwarming British classic – Stephen Daldry’s Billy Elliot.
An 80s-set tale of an 11-year-old boy who just wants to learn ballet, the play takes in the political strife of the era alongside a genuine and affectionate father-son relationship. The story touched a chord with audiences, propelling this small British film to earn over $100m at the worldwide box office and a slew of Oscar and BATFA nominations and wins, including the BAFTA for Best Leading Actor with then-14-year-old Jamie Bell beating out the likes of Tom Hanks and Russell Crowe.
A quarter of a century on, the film remains as realistic and as heartwarming as ever and has established itself as a genuine classic. While it would go on to spawn a hit musical adaptation –
which you can see next month at Harbour Lights – don’t miss your chance to revisit the original film, back on the big screen. Tickets are only £8/£5 Members.
