Jake and Heath

I saw this today and what struck me was the economy of the script.

When we first meet Ennis and Jack, neither says a word but oh so much is revealed.

We know Jack is on the make as soon as he leans against his truck and looks at Ennis.

Every movement Ennis makes is clenched. From the way he holds that paper bag to how he ducks his head and never looks up.

Much later in the film, about the time I'm wondering, can anyone tell these boys are gay, there's a scene with Jack telling his wife that she must call their son's teacher because he's complained too much and the teacher doesn't like him.

In the Thanksgiving Day scene where Jack finally tells off his jackass father-in-law, how much is conveyed by that little smile and proud nod to the son from Jack's wife. Amazing.

For me though, the same economy works against the picture, because I wanted to know more of the story. The structure after the first Act is episodic. It was like playing peek-a-boo with a masterpiece. Why can't we see the whole thing?

If the audience wants more at the end of a film, are they happy with the picture or frustrated by it? At least it will keep them talking about the movie long after the lights come up.