Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx

930 Words2 Pages

Many literary works deal with the issue of homosexuality and society’s response to it, and each of the works of literature have a different take on the issue. Therefore, the authors create and design their main characters with the traits and characteristics that are most fit to convey their perception of the issue. One of the most well known literary works that deal with homosexuality is “Brokeback Mountain” by Annie Proulx, in which the main characters are two male cowboys that are in love. In fact, the story was controversial enough that director Ang Lee decided to produce an adaptation of the story. However as expected, there was subtle changes in the characters and their traits in the transition from a book to the big screen.
The movie adaptation of the story, in my opinion, was masterfully executed with small discrepancies between the original story and the adaptation. Moreover, casting Heath Ledger as Ennis Del Mar and Jake Gyllenhaal as Jack Twist, was a spot on choice, for these two actors were experienced enough to play out such complex and controversial characters. In Proulx’s story, Ennis is characterized as a man of few words but with a strong sense of duty and responsibility, as he is hard working, yet he is much conserved due to his upbringing in a conservative setting of Wyoming and Heath Ledger deftly plays that role with ease and fluidity. Heath Ledger’s large stature coupled with his low toned voice perfectly expresses the traits of the Ennis without words just by the presentation of the actor.
On the other hand, Jack Twist is displayed as rash, open to change, and rather foul mouthed, which suits a person who is fascinated by bull riding. Therefore, Jake Gyllenhaal adeptly embodies Jack Twist’s character, as his...

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In addition, the movie accurately depicts the family dynamic and the difficulties faced by the characters. Lee’s casting meticulously displays the emotions and internal conflict that each character possesses through their body language and facial expressions. For example the scene where Jack is dancing with Lureen, he smiles in front of her when she is looking at him and pretends to enjoy his time, but the moment she turns her back he displayed his true emotions of sadness and emptiness due to his pretention of being something that he is not. Moreover, the progression of Alma’s internal strife after seeing Ennis’ passionate kiss with Jack is presented through her faces expressions and tone. For instance, the moment that she sees the kiss, her eyes show true astonishment, and then followed by sadness and realization; this was displayed without any need for words.

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