Far More Powerful Than I'd Anticipated

Rating: 10/10 (1 January 2006)

The now familiar story of 2 cowboys in 1963 Wyoming who unexpectedly fall in love is one powerful movie ! Aside from the gorgeous scenery, the first 45 minutes are rather slow viewing. Jack Twist (GYLLENHAAL) and Ennis Del Mar (LEDGER) are hired for a summer to watch a herd of sheep as they graze in the mountains of Wyoming. Both young men are from poor backgrounds. Del Mar is particularly quiet and says little. Alone out on BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, they slowly begin to bond. One night as they share a tent sleeping, a casual arm pulling the other nearer leads to a suppressed release of passion. That done, the story really begins to take off. They part ways at summer's end. Ennis vomits and pounds a wall, partially because he's confused about his taboo love, partially because he's not an articulate individual. Each marries a woman that they seem to love, but not be in love with. The men reunite 4 years later when Jack is going through the town where Ennis is living with his wife (WILLIAMS) and two young daughters. Ennis looks like he is alive for the first time in years when his old friend arrives. Ennis's wife sees the two men kissing during the initial visit, but says nothing. She is numb. The men go away on a 'fishing trip' which is a romantic liaison. They decide to go on fishing trips whenever times allow: Once, twice a year. Jack's wife (HATHAWAY) appears not to be aware of anything out of the ordinary except for her father's apparent contempt for her husband. Their story continues over the course of 20 years. Their inability to communicate and how they in turn express themselves is the real tale.
Precisely directed with standout performances by LEDGER, GYLLENHALL, HATHAWAY & WILLIAMS, this is definitely one intense, powerful piece of storytelling. Very well done, and one of the best movies with a real 'story' that I've seen in years.