Meaning: The quote is from Ang Lee, the director of the film "Brokeback Mountain," and it refers to the character Ennis Del Mar, played by Heath Ledger. Ennis is a complex and conflicted character in the movie, representing the conservative side of America and struggling with his own deeply ingrained homophobia. The quote speaks to the internal struggle Ennis faces as he grapples with his feelings for his lover, Jack Twist, portrayed by Jake Gyllenhaal.

Ennis Del Mar is a ranch hand who forms a deep and passionate relationship with Jack Twist during a summer job herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain. The film, set in the 1960s and spanning two decades, explores the complexities of their forbidden love and the challenges they face in a society that rejects their relationship. Ennis, in particular, embodies the internalized homophobia and fear of societal judgment that many LGBTQ+ individuals experience, especially in more conservative environments.

The quote highlights the cultural and psychological implications of Ennis's homophobia. As a character, Ennis embodies the struggle of many individuals who are raised in conservative or traditional environments where non-heteronormative relationships are not accepted. His internal conflict and repression of his true feelings are a poignant portrayal of the impact of societal expectations and cultural norms on individual identity and emotional well-being.

Throughout the film, Ennis wrestles with his emotions and the societal pressures that prevent him from fully embracing his love for Jack. His internalized homophobia and fear of judgment manifest in his reluctance to openly acknowledge his feelings, even to himself. This inner turmoil ultimately leads to tragic consequences for both Ennis and Jack, as they struggle to reconcile their love with the societal expectations and prejudices that surround them.

By the time Ennis admits his feelings, the quote suggests that it is too late. This speaks to the missed opportunities and the tragic outcomes that result from Ennis's internalized homophobia and his inability to fully embrace his love for Jack. The quote encapsulates the deeply emotional and psychological journey that Ennis undergoes throughout the film, as he grapples with his own identity and the societal forces that seek to suppress it.

In summary, Ang Lee's quote about Ennis Del Mar reflects the deeply ingrained homophobia and internal struggle faced by the character in "Brokeback Mountain." Ennis's journey serves as a powerful representation of the cultural and psychological implications of homophobia, and the quote encapsulates the tragic consequences of his inability to fully embrace his true feelings. The film's exploration of love, identity, and societal expectations continues to resonate with audiences, making it a poignant and enduring portrayal of the human experience.