A 'Mountain' of Achievements

Rating: 9/10 (23 January 2006)

In a theatrical year full of misconstrued love stories and failed acting attempts (think of the Simpson sisters in the big screen), movies like Brokeback Mountain were somewhat hard to find. And once both audiences and critics found a noteworthy production, it was bound to be a guaranteed phenomenon. Yes, the audiences have had their share of cinematographic masterpieces (Capote, Syriana, The Constant Gardener to name a few). But which movie was able to bring together two teen heartthrobs (Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal), under Ang Lee's direction, in a movie where the plot does not revolve around neither a serial killer nor a school crush?
Brokeback Mountain, based on the Annie Proulx novel of the same title, is that one Hollywood movie bound to steal audiences away with its tearjerker plot. Somehow, amidst all the imperfections and chaos and highly controversial subjects, the viewer feels compassion for the lead roles and supports their causes. That is precisely what Brokeback Mountain offers. As far as novels go, Brokeback Mountain is no Memoirs of a Geisha but the other way around seems to work in the benefit of the first, making Brokeback Mountain a winner. And that's the magic formula for this year's movies: Make a huge scene out of a small deal.
The story of 'Brokeback' centers on the two main characters: Ennis Del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist (Jake Gyllenhaal), two cowboys in 1963 who are assigned to work together on Brokeback Mountain, a location which is comfortable enough for the sheep herd they're looking after. After some time, the two engage in sexual activity, which both find enjoyable but brings them to the conclusion that neither is a homosexual. As time passes, the twosome can't believe in failed proclamation and they both choose to continue their relationship as a gay couple in 1960's Wyoming. The story continues to progress as the couple encounters trouble from society and must make very important decisions regarding their living situation.
Ang Lee's direction is simply spectacular in 'Brokeback'. Lee does a terrific job in blending emotions with spectacular scenery. The lush backdrop paints a beautiful picture for the audience that's entranced in the story's simple yet nerving plot. Lee will most definitely be nominated for an Oscar, but will probably lose to Oscar-prone actor-turned-director Clooney or the classic Spielberg. Ledger is also likely to get an Oscar nomination, as will the movie for film of the year. As it's pretty clear, Brokeback Mountain is one of the biggest motion pictures of the year, full of critical acclaim.
Perhaps the most deserving praise belongs to Michelle Williams, who plays Heath Ledger's wife in Brokeback Mountain. The fact that Williams and Ledger are a real-life couple (with a newborn baby, Matilda) does attribute to Williams' exemplary performance. However, Williams' role was presented with such raw emotion and strong foundation that it almost made her the star of the show, even surpassing Ledger, who could hardly be heard through his gritted-teeth tongue. Doubtless however, 'Brokeback' is still a testosterone-controlled powerhouse production.
One of the most amazing components of Brokeback Mountain, aside from the wonderful music, is the fact that all of the main actors are in their 20's and haven't had a wide-ranging portfolio of films. Ledger is mostly recognized for his recent less-than-acceptable films (The Brothers Grimm and Lords of Dogtown) and Hathaway is still mistaken for Princess Mia (her role in Princess Diaries). So by what magic power were these actors transformed into fine thespians, able to portray these amazing roles? Perhaps all the worth is due to the amazing script, or even Ang Lee.
Quite simply, 'Brokeback' is one of the finer movies of the year and will continue to sweep some of the biggest awards of the year (think of what happened at the Golden Globes). Although it does not compare to recent classics like Sideways, 'Brokeback' is able to touch a nerve and pose intelligent inquest to the viewer. The movie's delicate subject of homosexuality works to the movie's benefit in Brokeback Mountain, making the movie one of the best of the year.