It's been around for 20 years, has won three Oscars, and remains one of the most unforgettable and passionate westerns of recent times.

Few films of the 21st century have left as profound a mark as this romantic drama, set in the vast landscapes of the American West. Its release two decades ago marked a turning point in cinematic history, combining the classicism of the Western genre with an intimate, emotional narrative that, at the time, was unusual on the big screen.

Having become a symbol of LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood, its legacy has stood the test of time. Brokeback Mountain premiered in 2005 and was met with critical acclaim and admiration from audiences who hadn't always seen gay stories reflected in mainstream cinema. The nominations and awards were quick to follow: three Oscars , including Best Director for Ang Lee, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score, performed by Gustavo Santaolalla, as well as a profound cultural conversation about queer representation in film.

The film surprised everyone with its acting quality and its courage in tackling issues that were rarely seen in major studio films at the time. Based on an adaptation of Annie Proulx's short story of the same name , starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal , it tells the story of Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, two shepherds hired to work on Brokeback Mountain.

Their relationship, marked by repression, desire, and the inability to reconcile their affection beyond the mountains, broke the conventions of the genre and became a masterpiece for understanding the evolution of contemporary cinema in terms of diversity and emotional sensitivity.

Twenty years later, Brokeback Mountain maintains its status as a modern classic. Gyllenhaal and Ledger created an unforgettable connection , made even more bitter by the latter's death three years later . The power of their performances, Lee's direction, and its subtle yet powerful denunciation of a homophobic system keep it relevant at a time when queer narratives have found plurality but continue to struggle for visibility. The film is available on Movistar Plus+ and Filmin .