And nobody was even protesting!

Rating: 8/10 (15 January 2006)

Who would've thunk that a film dealing with this type of subject matter could be shown in this town at the same multiplex where the standard family-oriented junk was playing. I never expected this film to be shown around here, but the extraordinary success it has had in other markets has apparently paved the way. Surprisingly enough, nobody was making a scene outside. Not even the guy with the 9ft tall cross who protests EVERY movie. He was decidedly absent on Friday night. Is this a sign that we've come a long way in these parts since the whole Teena Brandon thing? Maybe.
That said, let's take a look at the actual film. Brokeback Mountain is a very good film. It falls a little short of greatness, but that was expected. It's hard for any film to live up to so much hype, I suppose. The film is very long considering the length of the story it is based on. Ang Lee knows how to show us the physical environment these people live in, but he has a little trouble giving us the insight needed to truly know the characters. We know that Jack loves Ennis. We aren't really sure how Ennis feels about anyone. Perhaps he does not know, himself. Only in the film's final frame do we see the depth of his emotions and begin to understand his degree of regret.
There is not much in the way of graphic sex. Much is implied, but little is shown. There is some nudity, but it's mostly fleeting. Jack and Ennis share some of the most passionate kisses ever put on film. We see the destructive effect of infidelity, and the consequences of marriages that never should have happened. We are shown the lonely world that comes from a person longing for someone they can't have, or refusing to acknowledge their true identity.
The soundtrack is minimal, but it will stick with you for a while. The scenery is exceptional, but considering where this was filmed, it had to be. The acting is strong across the board, and the subject matter will no doubt lead to multiple Academy Awards.
The film was profitable almost from the get-go, and it continues to rake in the cash wherever it's shown. The makers of this film, and especially its stars need to be commended for tackling such illicit subject matter in a way which could introduce it to the masses.
The average film-goer who may only be used to Hollywood blockbusters and light-weight fluff will not enjoy Brokeback Mountain. They'd be better off sticking with King Kong or something of that nature. If you like The Last Picture Show, or other introspective human dramas, and you have somewhat of an attention span, then Brokeback might just "get you good".
And sorry all you South Park fanatics. There wasn't any pudding in the film! 8 of 10 stars.
The Hound.