Reviewed: 12.27.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Heath Ledger (Ennis), Jake Gyllenhaal (Jack), Randy Quaid (Joe), Michelle Williams (Alma), Anne Hathaway (Lureen).
In 1963 it wasn't very safe to be publicly gay, even more so if you were a cowboy working with other cowboys and roughnecks, so when Jack and Ennis begin an affair while working as sheepherders they decide to keep things secret. Even from their wives. But as their relationship becomes more passionate, things become more and more difficult.
The critics loved this one and it got a ton of awards. Yet when I look online, a lot of reviewers are disappointed with the film and wondering how it won so many awards. That's also where I'm landing with this one. Yes, Ledger and Gyllenhall put forth pretty impressive performances assuming they are both straight and had no interest in each other. And yes, the scenery was gorgeous throughout the film. And although the plot was pretty simple, yes it was solid. But beyond that the film just didn't have much. The Ennis character was flat, largely unemotional, uncommitted to the relationship, and uncommunicative. Then there was Jack who seemed much more physically oriented, dominant to the point of aggressive, and very committed to the relationship. The two just didn't seem to fit other than being gay. I found myself looking for the emotional connection to the characters in what was supposed to be a love story and it just wasn't there.
Otherwise the film was a quality production. Good camera work, scenery, sets, backgrounds, sound, and dialogue all added to the feel of the film.
Overall this was a good film with decent acting and plot. It just didn't deliver the energy the hype suggested it would have. I enjoyed it, just not as much as I expected I would. If you enjoy dramas, or gay drama you might find some pleasure in this one. With some sexuality, nudity, foul language and brief violence save this for older teens and above.
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