The little film that could...

Rating: Null/10 (7 February 2006)

I have never before seen a movie that compelled me to write something like this. I've seen a ton of movies; some were great, some were good, some were pretty terrible. In the end, they all just became another film I saw. Brokeback was the surprising--and I suppose long awaited--exception that I never thought would come...I am incredibly thankful to have seen this. Honestly, and it's a little shameful to say now, I'm not sure I would have seen this if it didn't get all the attention it did. Thank goodness for all the awards! :) In 4 words: blew me away--completely. Go see it now...run if you have to! Not convinced? Then let's continue this review, eh? I have never felt so devastated by a film, so alone, so heartbroken. I can't remember ever crying all out in a movie (a few lumps in the throat for others that would quickly pass), but this did it. So many of those scenes...their power and emotion, they were just simply too much.
Forget all your pre-conceived notions about this movie: it is NOT a gay cowboy movie, and there is not an instance where the supposed "gay agenda" is promoted. It simply presents to you a raw slice of a few tormented lives, and leaves all the conclusions for you to consider. And think you will.
I was haunted by this film. Not really noticeable at first, it faded, even the feeling that accompanied the burst of tears in-film, so I assumed Brokeback was just another great film that, in 10 year's time, I would only recall that I had watched and liked thoroughly. But suddenly, yesterday in bed, images came unbidden, dialog echoed up from my abruptly aching heart...and to hell with how guys should act, I cried a little more! What inspires all this praise for Brokeback? Never mind the flawless scenery shot here in Alberta in the Rockies, never mind the sublime story it is based off of by Annie Proulx, ignore even, if it is possible, Ang Lee's masterful direction: it is the acting that carries everything, hands down. Heath and Jake are absolutely convincing in their depiction of two people utterly in love, and the supporting women are just as nuanced in their performances.
There is such a great emphasis in this film in the importance of what is not said and what is not done; movies typically garner reactions based on what happens. Here, the most poignant moments are what could have been, because it is ever the sadness of regret and missed opportunities that tear most deeply. Here, silences articulate more than any words could, whole stories can be written about each glance, and each little gesture carries immense weight.
This is a movie of subtleties that beg for discussion afterwards. It deserves all the accolades and awards, and deserves more. Brokeback Mountain is a landmark film, yes, mainstream in its appeal, universal, honest, and best of all, unforgettable.
In summary: this is a film made for repeat viewings. Open your mind, and give it a shot--there is nothing to lose, but so much to gain! :)