231 of 1001 Movies: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

I've never considered myself into martial arts movies. Recently they have been some of the more enjoyable movies I've watched though. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is no exception. Ang Lee brings his eye for detail and story telling to this movie, and makes it pop with a lot of emotion and complex characters. The acting is also really good, and I felt they bring the characters to life more than any other part of the movie could.

Summary: Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien find themselves in pursuit of a stolen sword that will lead them to cross paths with an old enemy, and to a girl, Jen Yu, who is having to make a big choice in her life. Jade Fox isn't the only one who could be responsible for the stolen sword though. Jen Yu is seeking to rebel from her family, and her associations with Jade Fox are only fueling her rebellion. She has lost hope in being with her lover, Dark Cloud, and believes that she must settle for an arranged marriage. Yu Shu Lien hopes she can befriend her though, and encourage her to take the right path.

172 of 1001 Movies: Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain is one of the most talked about movies from the year 2005. Many people I assume mention the relationship aspect of it, but it really I think goes deeper in that as to why it got so much publicity. The actors involved really do surrounded themselves in their characters, and the movie really does draw you into the world as if it is happening. It doesn't hold back on the thoughts, perspectives, and lives of the characters it's trying to depict.

Summary: Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist are looking for a job at the same place, herding and watching over Joe Aguiree's sheep. They are both hired and spend time together on Brokeback Mountain While there though Ennis and Jack begin a relationship that has to remain secret, but their secret will span years over time. Ennis and Jack do marry and move on, but their inability to stay away from each other will cause a lot of hurt, betrayal, and confusion for those that are affected by their relationship.