An Instant Classic

Rating: 10/10 (11 January 2006)

Forget all the 'gay cowboy' furore and watch this film with an open mind and you will be open to watching one of the truly great films of the last few years.
The film is nothing less than a masterclass is directing, writing and acting. The story of the relationship between two men and how it effects the rest of their lives is delivered with intelligence, integrity and sensitivity by all concerned.
The film has more in common with the classic cinema of the early 70's than it does with the loud, dumb films that Hollywood churns out today and it never underestimates the intelligence of the audience. The script is sparse but beautiful and allows the viewer space to understand the feelings and raw emotions that seethe beneath the surface. Lee's direction is flawless; he paces the film beautifully and avoids excess melodrama in favour of real emotions. The acting is quite stunning, the two leads say as much with their looks of longing and quiet despair as they do with their words and they are superbly supported by a faultless cast.
This is a film that resounds and resonates. It is achingly human with all the joy and sadness that entails. Don't miss it as this really is an instant classic