Michelle Williams remains perplexed nearly 20 years after the Academy Awards when her film Brokeback Mountain lost the coveted Best Picture Oscar to Crash. During a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live!, the actress expressed her confusion over the decision, stating, "What was 'Crash'?" This sentiment resonates with many who view the Oscar outcome as one of the biggest injustices in the history of the awards.
While promoting her new series Dying for Sex, Williams reflected on the impact of Brokeback Mountain, which tells the poignant story of two cowboys, Ennis (Heath Ledger) and Jack (Jake Gyllenhaal), who navigate their complex romantic relationship over several years. Despite its critical acclaim, Brokeback Mountain won only three Oscars that night—Best Director for Ang Lee, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score—while Crash took home the Best Picture award.
Williams, who played Alma, Ennis's wife, recalled the emotional responses the film elicited from audiences during its release. "People were so open about it. I just remember doing the junket. You know, you don’t really get a lot of opportunities to see grown men cry. That was the moment I think we all knew it was going to be special to people," she said, highlighting the film's profound impact on viewers.
Host Andy Cohen shared his own disappointment over the Oscar results, stating, "I was very upset about the Best Picture loss. I mean, 'Crash'? Is that what won?" Williams's playful jab at Crash and the audience's reaction underscored the film's fading relevance compared to the lasting legacy of Brokeback Mountain.
The 2006 Oscars were particularly memorable not just for the upset but also for the nominations that Brokeback Mountain received. The film entered the ceremony with eight nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Ledger, and Best Supporting Actor for Gyllenhaal. In contrast, Crash had five nominations. Many had expected Brokeback Mountain to sweep the awards, especially after winning major accolades such as the BAFTA and the Golden Globe for Best Picture.
Ang Lee, who directed Brokeback Mountain, later reflected on the Academy's decision, suggesting that there was a ceiling for the film due to its subject matter. In a 2024 interview, he stated, "Back then, [Brokeback Mountain] had a ceiling. We got a lot of support — up to that much. It has that feeling. I wasn’t holding a grudge or anything. It’s just how they were." This comment sparked discussions about the Academy's historical biases, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ themes.
Williams's comments about Brokeback Mountain also brought to light the emotional weight the film carried for both the cast and the audience. She reminisced about the unique bond she shared with Ledger, who tragically passed away in 2008. The two had a daughter, Matilda, who was just two years old when Ledger died. Williams described her time on set as a "very charmed time in my life," emphasizing the joy of being part of such a groundbreaking film.
In the years since, Brokeback Mountain has only grown in stature, frequently cited as a landmark film in LGBTQ+ cinema. Many critics and fans alike view its loss to Crash as a glaring oversight by the Academy. Lists of the worst Best Picture winners often include Crash, while Brokeback Mountain is celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of love and its cultural significance.
In a 2022 interview, Gyllenhaal also reflected on the film's legacy, noting the deep respect he and Ledger had for the characters they portrayed. "The relationship between me and Heath while we were making this movie was something that was based on a profound love for a lot of people that we knew and were raised by in our lives," he explained. This sentiment echoed Williams's earlier remarks about the emotional depth of the film and its ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
The 2006 Oscars remain a topic of debate among film enthusiasts, with Williams's recent comments reigniting discussions about the Academy's choices. While Brokeback Mountain continues to be celebrated for its storytelling and emotional resonance, Crash has struggled to maintain its place in cinematic history. As Williams aptly put it, "Thank you, I mean, who's talking about 'Crash' right now?" This question lingers, reflecting the enduring impact of Brokeback Mountain and the questions surrounding the Academy's decisions.
In the end, the conversation surrounding Brokeback Mountain and its Oscar snub serves as a reminder of the film's importance in both cinematic and cultural contexts. As audiences continue to engage with its themes and messages, the film's legacy remains secure, while Crash fades further into obscurity.
