Unfortunately, I really didn't like it...

Rating: 3/10 (19 February 2006)

I have to say, I was thoroughly disappointed with this film. After so very much hype over it, I expected a sure winner in my book. After all, I love a good love story, to me-and so many will disagree-this was not that. I went into this film with no qualms about the gay themed context, I was just in the mood for a little romance, and the love between two people, gay or straight, can be powerful stuff. I sat ready to be amazed in that first half hour, but instead felt bored. The scene in which Ennis and Jack make love for the first time seemed utterly mechanical and emotionless for me, not to mention abrupt. I do, however realize that the scene was supposed to convey their passion(mixed with a little courage thanks to the whiskey)for one another. I just didn't feel it. In fact, I really didn't feel much of anything from the characters. To me the emotions were flat, lukewarm at best. I get that Jack and Ennis have to repress their feelings, and so it's not going to come of as some prideful expression, but it seemed like the chemistry was lacking. Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway are two very talented young actors(as are Heath Ledger and Jake Gylenhall)but again, I felt their performances were muted, although Williams conveyed a lot of hurt and sadness, especially through her eyes and facial expressions. Linda Cardellini was quite good as Cassie, a young woman who loves Ennis, and is so confused and hurt that he's not returning the feelings. Kate Mara as Alma Jr at age 19, was also very believable, worried about her father, wanting his love and affection, but unable to really help him. The movie felt too jumpy for me. Example:At the river after Jack has found his blue parka, he and Ennis sit in the dark. Jack says "Sometimes I miss you so much" or close to that, and then the scene's over, they're lying in the tent together. I know there was supposed to be power in that scene, a dignified expression of the love shared, but it left me wanting more-and not really in a good way. I felt as though so many scenes were left unfinished, left to rely on the underlying meaning and become powerful, which to me they didn't. I know a lot of people think this movie is the cat's pajama's, and that's great, I'm not trying to trash the movie, but I can't say I cared for it and know a few people who have said it was amazing only to later admit after further discussion that they didn't like it, but felt compelled to like it. It's gotta be good though, it's up for quite a few awards and has gotten rave reviews, but I just can't jump on that band wagon. I know what the movie and the actors wanted to convey, I just didn't feel it.