Billy Elliot

[frualeydis]

I watched the film Billy Elliot yesterday. I haven't seen it before, even though it's been shown at least twice before on TV. As I had expected it was really good. The music was really good too, although I had expected that they would have "There's strength in the union" on the soundtrack too. I watched it together with my friend Anna and we talked about the fact that I had never been to see any ballet, which is strange, because I really like ballet. Then came a very strong scene with a riot and "London calling" in the background and I realized that it was a while since I participated in any riots too, almost three years to be exact. Not that I care that much for riots, because I'm a convinced pacifist. I don't mind damage to property that much, but hurting people is another thing. I also didn't enjoy being pushed by riot police with dogs toward stone throwing anarchists. The police tried to use the peaceful protesters as a sort of human shield. But what I do like is non-violent civil disobedience actions. Not only for the political effect they have, which of course is the main thing but I must admit that I also really enjoy the adrenaline rush. I go very fast from adrenaline to endorphins. I'm aware of this and see the dangers in looking for the adrenaline kicks, but the last years I haven't done any actions at all, so I guess I'm really not in danger of becoming an adrenaline-addict. I haven't been politically active in any major way for the last ten years. I think I got burnt out a little from all my activity and also I'm getting older and unfortunately you loose some of your drive to get involved and change the world when you get older.

Comments

[frualeydis.livejournal.com]

I loved that part of the story too, but remembering the coal miners strike from when I was rather young and what I felt about it then, somehow that moved me most. And the sacrifice Billy's dad does when he goes back to work. Would I do that? Giving up your dignity, everything you believe in, your self-respect and loose all respect in other peoples' eyes? I don't know, and I'm very grateful that it isn't likely that I will ever be in a situation where I have to make that choice.

Eva