MovieChat Forums > Billy Elliot (2000) Discussion > What was the point of Debbie?

What was the point of Debbie?

posted 11 years ago by dab6
5 replies | jump to latest

She doesn't become Billy's girlfriend or even a really good friend, and there's no resolution to their relationship. As far as I can tell, her purpose is only to confirm that Billy isn't gay,

[–] Mitzishark 11 years ago

I guess because it kind of is a film about growing up and the process of discovering your identity- e.g Billy discovering he wants to be a dancer, Michael discovering he likes wearing dresses and make-up and fancies boys.

Debbie's character is becoming very aware of her sexuality- 'I'll show you me fanny if you like'- and so it fits in with the general theme of growing up. The fact that there is no resolution to their friendship- well, how many friendships DO have resolutions? Most of them do just fade away like that.

[–] nnenok 9 years ago

Debbie's awareness of sexuality kinda spooked me. Ok, I was aware sex exists when I was 11, but by no means was I thinking about my parents regularly having sex the way Billy and Debbie did. At least not in a non-icky way :D

[–] spookyrat1 10 years ago

As far as I can tell, her purpose is only to confirm that Billy isn't gay.

I think that was the primary purpose. I agree that she sort of disappears into the movie ether, but let's face it. The film just isn't about their relationship.🐭

[–] MoviemanCin 9 years ago

As they say "People come into your life for a reason, a season, or for life."

Schrodinger's cat walks into a bar and doesn't.

[–] kayleewheat 8 years ago

I think the movie's about growing up and discovering who you are. Debbie was aware of her sexuality and also knew that her parents slept in separate beds. She also liked Billy, so she was a potential love interest for him.