From the casting, production, writing and acting, this queer classic featuring straight actors has stood the test of time. This is how Brokeback Mountain transcended the 'gay cowboy film' label. Spoilers ahead!

WORDS BY KATIE BASKERVILLE

When Brokeback Mountain hit the silver screen back in December 2005, it was quickly labelled as a ‘gay cowboy film’ (derogatory). There was also scepticism that the film, which tells the love story between Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, respectively played by the late Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal – both of whom are straight – would shape up to be nothing more than a parody.