Could two hot cowboys, hot for each other, be the breakthrough film that could change everything? The Clairidge is betting on Brokeback Mountain, with showings almost hourly. Here's what early viewers are saying, from NorthJersey.com:
I was kind of curious about how they deal with the subject of ... cowboys," said John Klemek with a grin.
Klemek, waiting on line Friday with his girlfriend, Denise Agnello, at Montclair's Clairidge Cinema 6 was, of course, half right.
They're gay cowboys - which is why the film, opening this weekend in two New Jersey theaters, has created a huge buzz, the beginnings of a backlash, talk of Oscars for Heath Ledger (in particular) and Jake Gyllenhaal, and a ready supply of jokes for David Letterman ("Top Ten Signs You're a Gay Cowboy").
Whether the movie truly breaks ground will depend on its effect on two very different audiences.
On the one hand, there are gay viewers - pretty much pre-sold and, judging by the number of same-sex couples in the audience Friday, "Brokeback's" likely core audience.
"I thought it was very well done and believable," said Klemek, a Ringwood resident, after seeing the film. "They really seemed like they were part of that environment. And the relationship is tragic."
On the other hand, Klemek admits, it was his girlfriend's choice to go to the movie. "It's her birthday," Klemek said.
That, some forecasters say, is the most likely scenario for this movie. Gays will see it. Women will see it, in groups. And women will drag their boyfriends and husbands to it.
OK, who's seen it? Give us your take here.
We saw it Friday and thought it was a really good movie and in the same tradition of most of Hollywood's romantic dramas. I thought the movie told the story very well and it was very very true to the original short story. I also thought the actors did a pretty good job, though I dont think they should get any bonus points for playing gay. Heath Ledger did a great job portraying Ennis. And, the definitely gives you plenty of things to think and talk about afterwards...I'd be interested in hearing the viewpoints of some of the straight people (though, then this thread might turn into a spoiler thread!)
If you're interested in reading the original short story - go to:
http://ennislovesjack.blogspot.com
My only complaint is not generic to this movie, but is rather a complaint about most movies...that they're all full of really hot people. It's clear from the short story that these were two average normal looking guys, but the movie of course has Hollywood hunks. Of course, I doubt it would have the same buzz if it were John Goodman and Randy Quaid making out...