Julie Walters’ best movie is now streaming for free

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The acclaimed comedy-drama, Billy Elliot – widely regarded as one of Julie Walters‘ finest performances (according to The Guardian) – can now be streamed on ITVX.

The well-known coming-of-age story, penned by Lee Hall, was skillfully directed by Stephen Daldry. The lead character, played by the talented Jamie Bell, received praise from many for his performance.

11-year-old Billy Elliot hails from County Durham and dreams of turning into a skilled ballet dancer professionally. This ambition clashes with the views of his single father, Jackie (played by Gary Lewis), who works as a coal miner, and isn’t supportive.

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Following covert dance practice sessions with teacher Sandra Wilkinson (Walters), it dawns on Billy that there could be a chance for him to audition and potentially get accepted into the prestigious Royal Ballet School in London.

After the movie premiered in 2000, both Bell and Walters received numerous award nominations. Ultimately, Bell was victorious at the BAFTAs, taking home the prize for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Simultaneously, the esteemed actress Walters was nominated for a prestigious Academy Award in the Best Supporting Actress category. Although she didn’t win an Oscar in 2001, Walters was honored with the title of British Actress of the Year by the London Film Critics’ Circle instead.

Reflecting back on my role in Billy Elliot, I shared with The Guardian my deep emotional connection to it. It resonated on multiple levels, and at the time, it felt like a rare gem amidst the mediocre content often presented to me – truly a diamond in the sand, unlike the run-of-the-mill projects I usually encounter.

25 years since its premiere, the movie “Billy Elliot” continues to impress on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting an 85% approval rating. Critics have been moved by the film’s profound emotional depth.

“Engrossing, funny, very sad, very moving and very uplifting,” wrote the BBC.

“It’s as raw a slice of escapism as you could wish for,” noted the Independent.

Agreeing with this viewpoint, Salon.com praised Billy Elliot as “An unexpectedly insightful and humorous exploration of the essence of masculinity.

Billy Elliot is now available to stream on ITVX.

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2025-08-24 20:49