Monday, January 16, 2006

"Brokeback" Trots Into Heartland


"Brokeback Mountain" is no longer a critics' darling or an art house hit. It's a genuine, across-the-board success in cities large and small. This weekend "Brokeback" expanded to 683 screens, hitting $30 mil at the box office. It only cost $15 mil and the Golden Globes are awarded tonight, with Oscar nominations a moment away. It's certain to make at least $50 mil, a terrific amount for a film of its cost. (Not to mention DVD sales that will far outgross the box office, a la "Ray.")

"The Advocate" has an exclusive online piece by "Brokeback's" co-screenwriter Dianna Ossana, who addresses the annoying habit of people referring to the actors as "brave" for tackling these roles. Ossana offers up this recent quote from Ledger, who is clearly getting better at talking about the film (rave reviews and a hotter-than-ever career boost will do that for you).
Heath was asked by an interviewer recently if he felt brave taking on the role of Ennis. He replied, "Brave? Firefighters and policemen are brave. I’m just an actor, getting paid to act. I feel lucky to be involved with this project.”

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