Two horse riders, working as sheep herders on Brokeback Mountain, struggle with their feelings for each other, and the destructive nature of their love.
Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger star in this brutal modern western, one that is both gripping and devastating. Ennis (Ledger) is a married man with kids, who has to find work wherever he can in the small town where he lives. Taking on jobs like sheep herding, ranching, and farming duties are his only way of paying the bills, and keeping his family from the poverty line. Jack Twist (Gyllenhaal) is an enthusiastic cowboy, who loves to bull ride, and wants his own ranch one day.
Ennis and Jack take a job on Brokeback Mountain, herding the sheep from one side to the other. Whilst on their journey, the two begin to form a close bond, one that is difficult for them both to register, especially for Ennis. At first it seems like simple camaraderie, but they soon realise they want to be together, and experience a savage lust for each other. However, once the job is done, they have to go back to their old lives, a world that is unwilling to allow two men to live together. The film follows the lives of Ennis and Jack, as they try to go on without each other, only allowing themselves sneaky reunions on the mountain, and how they become violently frustrated with their situation.
It is an outstanding film, one completely founded on two amazing performances. The two lead actors provide an undoubtedly brilliant display of complex emotions and inner battles. Ledger is superb as the rage-filled yet stoic man, offering some spectacular outbursts of emotion, whilst Gyllenhaal is wonderful as the optimistic, naïve lover whose pursuit of freedom fights with his love for Ennis.
There was much controversy with this film, in particular with the infamous sex scene. Whilst difficult to watch, it is an important scene, as it shows the raw feelings of these two characters, and also the way their masculinity is not diminished. It is a darkly entertaining film, with engaging characters and a devastating story.
If you are a fan of intense dramas, character exploration, or amazing dramatic performances this is a brilliant film to watch.
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