Brokeback Mountain

It'd be interesting to read the screenplay for the film that has been heralded as the best 2005 has to offer. My guess is the script would be very short, as there seems to be the bare minimum of dialogue in a dramatic motion picture in Brokeback Mountain. The story of two gay cowboys secret lives in the mountains is quite simple on the surface, but the terrific film-making triangle of Ang Lee, Heath Ledger, and Jake Gylenhall combines to create a deep and complex love story accessible to a select few movie goers. While many people could go see Brokeback Mountain and enjoy the beautiful scenery, and the story and characters on the surface, but the real brilliance of Brokeback Mountain will be missed by the average dim-witted movie goer. The film is made for a certain brand of person, and if you don't fit into Ang Lee's intended audience, the powerful but subtle emotional subtext will be blown over your head. Which is a shame, as if you do understand the depth of character and complexity of the situational drama, than Brokeback is an incredible piece of artistry. The script is very bare bones, and certainly is not what made the film what it is. It relies almost solely on the tandem of director Ang Lee, and actors Heath Ledger and Jakey Gylenhall. Ang Lee is the perfect director for this piece of work, and knows all about constructing silent brilliance after his 2001 masterpiece Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Heath Ledger, while he's never been a particularly strong actor, fits into the role of the tight-lipped tough cowboy extremely well, and works with the film's style to deliver a reserved but strong performance. The young Gylenhall is astounding, involved in material far beyond his age and maturity, the star of the smash cult success Donnie Darko brings a great energy and intensity to the picture. Terrific casting all around, and the supporting cast does well to just slide nicely into the background and be a backdrop for the two leads. Brokeback Mountain is no doubt a beautiful piece of artwork, and in the upper echelon of 2005. The best? No, but it's up there, definitely top 10. It's inaccessibility is it's only flaw, definite recommendation to the hardcore film fans out there.