The pivotal scene for Billy’s father is when he crosses the picket line to work so that he can have money for his son’s dancing. Why is the scene so emotionally charged for both the father and his elder son?
When Jackie crosses the picket line in an attempt to make money for Billy's audition, Tony confronts him and the father and son, who have been driven apart by their differing attitudes towards the strike, are rendered vulnerable around the question of how to help Billy. They confront the resentments that have been building between them, and find connection through a shared project of helping Billy achieve his dreams.
Billy Elliot
