Book Vs Movie Podcast
Book Vs. Movie:
Billy Elliot
The 2000 Film Vs the 2014 Musical Live
“Musicals in March!”
The Margos continue “Musicals in March” with the film & stage show of Billy Elliot. Both tell the inspiring story of a working-class boy in 1980s northern England who discovers a passion for ballet during the UK miners’ strike, but they differ in tone and presentation.
The film, directed by Stephen Daldry and written by Lee Hall (based on his play Dancer), is a gritty drama starring Jamie Bell, featuring a rock and pop soundtrack. It focuses on Billy’s journey and his family’s struggles, earning critical acclaim and multiple BAFTA and Oscar nominations.
In contrast, the musical expands the story with more extensive dance sequences and fantasy elements, highlighting the miners’ plight. It includes music by Elton John and offers more character development and stylized theatrical moments. The musical has won numerous Olivier and Tony Awards.
Which version did we prefer? Listen to find out!
In this ep, the Margos discuss:
- The history behind the original story
- The road from the film world to stage
- The cast includes: Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot young,) Adam Cooper (Billy Elliot grown,) Julie Walters (Sandra Wilkinson,) Gary Lewis (Jackie Elliot,) Jamie Draven (Tony Elliot,) Jean Heywood (Grandma,) Stuart Wells (Michael Caffrey young,) Merryn Owen (Michael Caffrey grown,) Nicola Blackwell (Debbie Wilkinson,) Colin Mclachlan (Tom Wilkinson,) Mike Elliot (George Watson,) and Billy Fane as Mr. Braithwaite.
Clips Featured:
- “Billy performs for his dad (movie)”
- Billy Elliot (2000 trailer)
- “Like electricity (movie)”
- “Billy says goodbye (movie)”
- “Billy as a grownup (movie)”
- Billy Eliot the Musical (2014) trailer
- “Solidarity (musical)”
- “Like electricity (musical)”
- Jamie Bell wins the BAFTA
- Music by Stephen Warbeck and Elton John.
Follow us on the socials!
- Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
- You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
- Instagram: Book Versus Movie @bookversusmovie
- bookversusmoviepodcast@gmail.com
- Margo D’s Blog: Brooklynfitchick.com
- Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
- Margo D’s TikTok
- Margo D’s YouTube: @MargoDonohue
- Margo P’s Instagram: @shesnachomama
- Margo P’s Blog: coloniabook.com
- Margo P’s YouTube Channel: @shesnachomama
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine

Book Vs. Movie is the podcast that ponders the question: "Which was better...the book or the movie?" We spoil away the details, uncover the plot points, discuss casting choices and shower with praise (or pummel with snark) as we see fit. Hosts are Margo P. (She's Nacho Mama's Blog) and Margo D. (Creator of Brooklyn Fit Chick.com) and we are not afraid to tell it like it is!