This is a film that can do some good.

Rating: 10/10 (16 December 2005)

This film hits home runs in just about every category. Starting with a great screenplay, the film was beautifully cast, directed, shot and edited.
At the center of the film Heath Ledger is phenomenal. He is a study of the taciturn American man, reluctant to communicate or let others in, limited by lack of education and a rough upbringing. Jake Gyllenhaal's performance is up there, too, instigating, charming, looking for a good time. Ultimately the characters are good 'ol boys who fall into a passionate affair.
The world where their relationship develops could not be further removed from contemporary techno-urban life than if it took place on Mars. Against this austere environment their relationship seems distilled and pure.
The filmmakers offer the viewer a window into the honesty and humanity of intimacy which happens to be same-sex and the complications which result in the larger world. The film is heartbreaking.