Excellent story, performances and directing.

Rating: 10/10 (19 January 2007)

I put off watching this movie for no particular reason. It was so controversial, I just decided to stay away from it. Several months ago I saw that it was on and recorded it on TiVo, but still did not watch it until a few days ago. What a mistake that was! The movie was a beautiful story of "forbidden" love. It made me both happy and sad. I cannot get the story or the characters out of my mind. I went out and bought the DVD and have watched the movie again. I am fighting the urge to watch it a third time because I don't want it to become some crazy obsession.
This movie has made me rethink everything in my life. I don't want to take anything for granted because you never know when it might end. Every single person should watch this movie with an open mind. I have a new respect for the acting talents of Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger. They made a story that seemed improbable to me very believable. I wanted Jack and Ennis to be together so much it hurt my soul. I play out scenarios in my mind where Jack doesn't die, but they continue their relationship to a time when attitudes are different and more accepting and they can be together. Dumb, I know.
Sitting here typing, I am having a hard time putting my feeling into words so I will just say that if you haven't seen this movie after two years, please do. Excellent movie!