Brokeback Mountain

In the summer of 1963, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist begin working as sheep herders on Brokeback Mountain in Wyoming. Both are young men who feel isolated in their lives, and their work marks the beginning of an unexpected friendship.

At just 19 years old, Ennis is engaged to marry in the fall and dreams of owning a ranch to honor his late parents. Despite his engagement, Ennis finds himself forming a deeper connection with Jack as they work together on the mountain.

As the two men endure the harsh conditions of their job, their friendship evolves into something much deeper. The isolation and their shared experiences allow them to express feelings they never knew they possessed.

One night, after sharing drinks to keep warm, Ennis and Jack share a single tent due to the bitter cold. This moment of closeness leads to a profound personal discovery as they cuddled for warmth, igniting a passionate connection.

As summer progresses, Ennis and Jack give in to their desires, forming an intense bond filled with both joy and conflict. They navigate complicated emotions, blending loneliness and fear into their relationship.

As the summer fades, the two men part ways, returning to their normal lives. Ennis marries Alma and soon becomes a father, while Jack remains unattached until he has a child with rodeo cowgirl Lureen Newsome.

In 1967, Ennis and Jack reunite on Brokeback Mountain, filled with overwhelming emotions. Their passionate kiss, however, is seen by Alma, causing her to grow suspicious of Ennis's frequent 'fishing trips' to the mountains.

Alma's suspicions ultimately lead to her and Ennis's divorce in 1975, with Alma gaining custody of their daughters. Ennis finds himself grappling with the fear of societal rejection for his love for Jack.

After Ennis's divorce, Jack hopes to build a life together, but Ennis remains conflicted about the implications of their love. They compromise on meeting several times a year, each encounter ending in emotional goodbyes.

As time passes, Ennis faces increasing financial challenges, leading him to see Jack less frequently. Meanwhile, Jack travels to Mexico, seeking companionship in hidden venues catering to their desires.

A confrontation reveals Jack's frustration and longing as he declares, 'I wish I could quit you!' This statement encapsulates the deep emotional turmoil both men experience as they struggle with their identities.

In 1980, Ennis receives a postcard marked 'deceased,' notifying him of Jack's tragic death due to a hate crime. This heartbreaking news devastates Ennis, prompting him to seek answers about the true nature of Jack's demise.

Ennis connects with Jack’s wife, Lureen, who provides misleading details about Jack's death. She hides the true circumstances, leaving Ennis with unresolved pain and grief regarding their relationship.

Jack's last wish is revealed to Ennis, expressing a desire for his ashes to be scattered at Brokeback Mountain, a poignant symbol of their love. Ennis is left with memories and the shirts they once wore, preserving their bond.

In 1983, Ennis visits Jack's family home, confronting his profound sense of loss. He clings to the preserved shirts and a postcard of Brokeback Mountain, trapped in the memories of his love for Jack.