Ennis and Jack (Ledger and Gyllenhaal) meet in the summer of 1963 when they both herd sheep on Brokeback Mountain in Wyoming. These two are a dying breed, and alone in the mountains they discover a camaraderie that extends into the sleeping bag. But since this is unacceptable back down the mountain, they go their separate ways. Ennis marries his childhood sweetheart (Williams) and has two kids; Jack moves to Texas and marries a rich girl (Hathaway). Four years later, they meet again. "What are we gonna do now?"

As the story continues over nearly two decades, it deepens and resonates in unexpected ways that are raw and revealing. This is an extremely important story, and not just because of the sexuality issue; anyone who has reluctantly fallen in love or been forced into an expected life can identify with this film. As usual, Lee directs with subtle attention to detail, capturing both the awesome grandeur of the scenery and the telling flickers of a character's eye, from small outdoor adventures to heaving internal yearnings.

The actors pour their souls into these roles. All four central cast members have moments of transparency that shake us to the core. Ledger is the standout, with an open-hearted performance that catches us in the back of the throat. His interaction with every other character is what drives the plot forward with relentless force. When he's overcome with longing, it's actually hard to watch.

Where the film stumbles is in the editing, assuming more scenes between Ennis and Jack were filmed. But what's left is only the bare outline of their relationship. We get the introduction, and one moment of true tenderness. Otherwise, they're never together in any meaningful way. We know they can't live without each other only because they talk about it. But there's a nagging sense that, even though this is a thoroughly adult film about giving into a fear of how society will react, that's exactly what the filmmakers have done. Which, in a film this powerfully emotional and resonant, is both a pity and a shame.

themes, language, violence, sexuality, some nudity

14.Sep.05

Michelle, London: "Stunning film! The acting was sublime - it made up for a lot of Heath Ledger's dialogue being rather unintelligible! A love story which really tugs at your heartstrings as you feel for each of the main characters - Michelle Williams was excellent I felt. The scenery is absolutely beautiful and makes for a perfect backdrop. I think this is a film which would touch you no matter how many times you saw it and is definately worth going to see again." (17.Jan.06)

Scott, Ohio: "I could not get this film off my mind! I was so moved by these characters I couldn't begin to explain it. Michelle's acting was great! Then there was Jack's mother. I thought she was awesome! Of course Heath and Jake were great! I'm going again!" (5.Feb.06)