Cast
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Heath Ledger
as Ennis Del Mar
Jake Gyllenhaal
as Jack Twist
Michelle Williams
as Alma Beers
Anne Hathaway
as Lureen Newsome
Randy Quaid
as Joe Aguirre
Linda Cardellini
as Cassie Cartwright
Anna Faris
as Lashawn Malone
David Harbour
as Randall Malone
Roberta Maxwell
as Jack's Mother
Kate Mara
as Alma Del Mar Jr. (age 19)
Peter McRobbie
as John Twist
Graham Beckel
as L.D. Newsome
Mary Liboiron
as Fayette Newsome
Scott Michael Campbell
as Monroe
Marty Antonini
as Timmy
Crew
Director
- Ang Lee
Producer
- Diana Ossana
- James Schamus
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Brokeback Mountain examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ang Lee brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2005, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Brokeback Mountain took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $14.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 134 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Brokeback Mountain shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Vanilla Sky, which focuses more on action than character development, Brokeback Mountain subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Memoirs of a Geisha and SommerHundeSöhne explore similar territory, Brokeback Mountain stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 2005
- Runtime: 2h 14m
- Budget: $14,000,000
- Revenue: $178,043,761
