Excellent and low key

Rating: 10/10 (9 December 2005)

I have a major problem with anyone who describes this as the "gay cowboy" movie. Yes, it is a cowboy movie (but not in the stereotypical sense) and it does have some elements of a gay film (two male characters falling in love). But the way it's handled by everyone involved makes Brokeback Mountain so much more than the "gay cowboy" movie.
Everything about the film is tastefully done. Frankly, for the "gay cowboy" movie, we see more female breasts than anything else. And I think Brokeback is better for that. If it had been a skin fest, then the entire production would have been written off as pandering. The music is kept to a minimum to allow the actors to carry the scenes--and what a group there are. Jake and Heath, of course, but also Randy Quaid, Linda Cardellina, Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway. They all turn in fine performances that evoke different emotions-heartbreak, anger, resentment, bewilderment.
It's about loneliness, rejection, hanging on, happiness and deluding yourself. It's not a fun movie or a happy one where everyone gets what they want. This is an excellent movie, most likely the best I've seen this year. Ang Lee doesn't draw attention to the directing with wild shots or fantastic camera angels; it's all very realistic and grounded.