Cowboy Hats off to Brokeback Mountain

Rating: 8/10 (7 February 2006)

"Love is a force of nature" is the acknowledged tagline of the critically acclaimed Ang Lee film "Brokeback Mountain". However, "Mother Nature" nor in this case "Gay Father Nature" could have predicted that this little independent film about two Wyoming ranch cowboys who endure a twenty-year old secret romance would create such a cinematic force. "Brokeback Mountain" will undoubtedly ride off with numerous Oscar golden boys; come on, those gay cowboys sure like those shiny naked boys. Brokeback Mountain is an incandescent film that contains one of the most breathtaking cinematography I have ever seen in a motion picture. The musical score of Brokeback also successfully juxtaposes the narrative's reticent themes. Heath Ledger turns in a remarkable performance as Ennis Del Mar, the taciturn cowboy who marries his accommodating country gal Alma. Michelle Williams' work as Alma was one of the "Alma Matters" salute material. Both are deserving of their Oscar nominations. Jake Gyllenhaal, plays Gay Cowboy #2 Jack Twist. He is the most unrestrained of the two who desperately pursues a committal romance between Ennis and him. However, the real "twist" of "Brokeback Mountain" comes in when "he will be coming around the Brokeback Mountain when Ennis comes". Gyllenhaal also scored a Best Supporting Actor nod for his affectionate performance. Anne Hathaway plays Lureen Newsome, Twist's imperious wife who probably should have looked at his "Gay Cowboy Diary" instead of her "Princess Diary" to seek the truth what got "Jack off". Director Ang Lee's film 'which could have easily been titled "Crouching Cowboy receives Hidden Dragon", was really a lucid film about forbidden love in a stillness environment. Lee's efforts are commendable. The only area where I have to say "hold your horses" and say that is was overrated is in the film's lackluster screenplay. Let's just say that "I could quit that type of wordage." Nevertheless, this film is picturesque, thought-provoking, and revolutionary enough for me to get on my high horse and recommend "Brokeback Mountain". **** Good