BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN ticks lots of the right boxes, the ones marked beautiful, well acted, spectacular and thought provoking. It is all those things in spades – but it is also too slow and measured for thrill-seekers. Director Ang Lee brings his ever-sure t

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN ticks lots of the right boxes, the ones marked beautiful, well acted, spectacular and thought provoking. It is all those things in spades - but it is also too slow and measured for thrill-seekers.

Director Ang Lee brings his ever-sure touch to this tale of two inarticulate cowboys trapped in a rigid world where everything must be done in the macho rough way it always was.

But during a tough summer working together on Brokeback Mountain, they discover a mutual overwhelming passion that will both enrich and sour the rest of their lives.

They part with no commitment to meet again but then the lively Jack (Jake Gyllenhaal) turns up on Ennis's doorstep after four domestic years. Ennis leaves his devastated wife and two daughters to follow his passion with Jack and, despite his quick return, his marriage is broken for ever.

What follows are long slow years of snatched weekends, frustration and fear until finally Jack snaps and the situation spirals out of control.

The beauty of Wyoming is in sharp contrast to the sterility of its residents. At the end of this lingering film one is left with a sense of desolation and sorrow at petty prejudice and a forbidden, lyrical love.

Thanks to Cineworld, Stevenage.

SUE FISHER