I loved this movie. And not for its political or social aims, but for the overall rawness of the film. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about Brokeback Mountain, going into it after all of the media attention and Oscar spurn, if it would live up to the hype or if it would be the “gay cowboy movie” everyone was making it out to be. From the first second of the film, I was able to tune out all of the public scrutiny and simply watch a beautifully told and performed piece of cinema.

With young actors such as Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Williams, Anne Hathaway and even Anna Faris attached to the film, I expected very little from their performances. However, I was completely blown away by their level of acting, especially that of Ledger and Williams, who commanded my attention every time they were on screen. I couldn’t believe these were the same people from 10 Things I Hate About You and Dawson’s Creek, respectively. As well, Ang Lee’s direction of the film is masterful. The images of the freedom and serene beauty of the mountains are contrasted wonderfully with the loud, crowded setting of the urban centres, where Ennis and Jack must always return after their short meetings on Brokeback Mountain.

The relationship between Ennis and Jack churned all of my emotions. Ennis’s line, “It’s because of you that I’m like this… I’m nothing, I’m nowhere,” sums up the tragic nature of their story. Brokeback Mountain is a haunting movie, as the story of Ennis and Jack produces a sadness that sent shudders through my heart until the very end.

Was it a revolutionary film? I don’t know. But it obviously brings to the fore issues that many people would rather shy away from than face head-on and deal with. Those who are opposed to homosexuality will most likely stay away from Brokeback Mountain altogether, while those who are somewhat curious may just have their eyes (and hearts) opened a bit more.