Heath Ledger Books

This is the original story by Annie Proulx as well as the movie script. Great for fans of the film as a collector item.

I had to purchase this book for a college course, otherwise I probably would never have read it. I found it boring and realized that it's probably better suited for either men who like cowboy stories, or people who are into studying how to create a screenplay from a move. The screenplay stays very true to the short story. The best part about this book is the essay in the back by Proulx. I suggest you read it before you read the short story as it answered my main question, which is why a straight woman in her 60s would write a story about rough cowboys who were having trouble accepting their sexual orientation.

This item took you through the entire life of the book to the screenplay to the movie. It was great reading what the writers said about the project and how it was a labor of love for everyone involved. It was wonderful reading how devoted everyone was to the project. Much how the two main characters were devoted to each other.

In an effort to check out my approach to writing a book adaption to screenplay, I thought it would be a good exercise to experience how others have done it. After reading the Brokeback Mountain short story, then reading the shooting script, then watching the film, I knew I was right on target. It is invigorating to experience and understand the progression from story to screenplay to film. The book also includes backround information from the short story writer, Annie Proulx and the two screenwriters, Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana, which tops off the value of this book. Reading it is a great process, and once you've read the book, you'll appreciate the film even more.
-Catherine Busch-Johnston-

This is an excellent addition to anyone's book collection - not only do you receive Annie Proulx's wonderful story, but you can experience Larry McMurtry's and Diana Ossana's sweet, lilting and poignant screenplay. Ennis and Jack jump off the page, fictional characters who have somehow become real, as we are transported with them through the most beautiful twenty years of their star-crossed lives. No, it is not a story about gay cowboys....it is a story about two young men who find love and happiness in an unlikely relationship, and simply don't know how to handle it. The part of this story that always grabs me is that through a simple twist of fate, the entire ending could have been different.

I suggest this book couple with the movie - seeing the screenplay come to life through Heath Ledger's and Jake Gyllenhaal's performances is spell bounding.

It was a fascinating read to see the short story move from Annie's simple prose to screenplay. And the chapters at the end which discuss the story and the filming of this heart-wrenching story is worth the price. I highly recommend it. Thanks for listening.

This is has to be one of the best advertising I have ever seen for an upcoming movie. This is great for anyone who is a fan of Christopher Nolan's Batman Begins and looking forward to the upcoming release of The Dark Knight. It is a great read and very amusing. From what I can tell, it just tries to fill you in about what has been going on in Gotham from the close of the first movie to where it will be in The Dark Knight. The quality of the paper is excellent and the pictures are great too. I hope anyone that has it truly enjoys!

Everyone who has been working in these two films has done a great job.
~*RIP Heath Ledger*~

This is a classic story about honor and personal courage. I like to be reminded of how important these aspects were to people in the 19th century. It is a good story.

"The Four Feathers" is a book I've been meaning to read ever since I saw the 2002 movie. I expected there to be differences from the book and movie, but nothing of this magnitude. I enjoyed the movie, so I thought I'd enjoy the book. Instead, I found the movie to be much more compelling than the book, which, in comparison, was a sappy soap opera. The book - I felt - focused more on Durrance's blindness and Ethne's self-imposed obligation to him. I at times completely forgot about Harry Feversham and what he was trying to accomplish. I felt the book's summary was very misleading; I felt the movie took the more interesting aspects of the book and expounded upon them. Even when you discard any thought of the movie, and you try to rate the book itself, it falls short. In the movie, I knew why Harry did what he did. While reading this book, I was still left wondering why. If I look at it as a romance novel, then it was well written. If I look at it as a war-type novel, then it totally missed the mark. I "sorta" recommend.

The four feathers is a tale of the meaning of Victorian virtues of heroism. The tale takes on a very Clausewitzian stance on the difference between physical courage, shown in Durrance, and moral courage, shown in Harry Feversham. Harry is disgraced for he refused to face combat in Sudan in the late 1880's. He is sent white feathers by his comrades and given one by his to be fiancé, Ethne. He then takes a path of redemption to regain honour in the eyes of his friends and woman. Overall, this novel is an excellent show of the difference between moral and physical courage, and with deep psychological development in the characters.
This novel is one of the most intriguing character development novels, perhaps even rivaling Heart of Darkness. The characters of Harry, Durrance, and Ethne are all so engaging and enticing that you cannot but help to get engrossed within this novel. Yet that is where the engagement ends. The front cover of this novel is indeed very deceptive. The work is predominately, as one reviewer already noted, a psychological and emotional journey. This book is not an action war novel in the likes of Cornwell, Clancy, Smith, O'Brian, Forrester, and other military writers. The reader used to these kinds of action-packed works with a great balance between character development (Sharpe and Harper, or Aubrey and Dr. Maturin being the most famous character pairs)and historical military action will find this novel sorely lacking. The novel retains a hint of allusion to action such as breaking of squares and night-actions and the like, yet the reader seeking a vivid mental imagery finds the material lacking in description. The descriptions of POW life and the House of stone were haunting, yet seem misplaced within a Victorian war novel. The action (or allusion to it, as is predominately the case) in the novel is sorely to further the admittedly outstanding character development of Harry, Durrance, Sutch, Ethne, and other distinguished characters.

Overall an excellent character development story, yet to those looking for action and a historical analysis of actual battles and fighting, look to the aforementioned authors instead.

I found this book to be a classic tale of honour and redemption, dealing with love and perceived cowardness. This book is about a young man, Harry Ferversham, who is brought up in an old military family, thinks he is a coward and is about to be married to a girl who's father disproves of the military. As a result, he decides to quite the military. The trouble comes when he finds out that his unit is about to be shipped off to war, just before he quits, but he decides to quite anyways. Three of his friends in his military unit send him white feathers of cowardness, and when his fiancée finds out, she breaks off her engagement, and gives him a fourth feather.

Harry, with his life in tatters decides to go and attempts to do heroic acts for his friends, in the hope that if they redeem their feathers, his fiancée, Ethne Eustace, will withdraw hers.

Meanwhile, Jack Durrance, one of Harry's other friends, finds out that Harry and Ethne's relationship has been broken off, but not why it was broken off. He tries to court Ethne, as he was in love with her before, but she has now decided that she made a mistake with sending Harry away, and doesn't love Jack. Before she can tell him this, Jack gets blinded, and she decides to pretend to love him so that she can care for him.

Interestingly, this story is told, after the feathers have been given, primarily from the viewpoints of Ethne and Jack, which allow the reader to find out what's happening only as those characters do, and it also allows us to see Jack and Ethne's thoughts towards each event as they slowly piece together what is and has happened with Harry.

A warning note is, like many of my fellow reviewers have stated, there is very little action in the book, unlike in the movie adaptations, as many of the events are just mentioned as a backdrop. But, this is not a bad thing, as this story does not need any major action scenes, and they would probably hurt this story, which is more of personal struggles, of love and honour, than battles.

This story has some 19th Century ideals, such as colonialism, and the fact that there is only one non-white character in the book, who, while he plays a fairly major supporting role, is not that well developed, nor is he a very strong character. Despite all of this, I really enjoyed its tale of honour and redemption, and if this book is taken as a product of it's time, it is really quite amazing. The book also gives the reader a great view of upper-class English life in this time period.

The Four Feathers by A.E.W. Mason is a riveting tale that relates the natural human need for redemption through a story that realistically depicts the complex interrelationships between love, friendships, trust, and courage.

Harry Feversham, a young man who finds himself born into a historic family of proud British military men, wants nothing more than to be free of such a heritage. Whereas his forefathers fought and died with great courage, Harry is petrified of risking his life for his country and mentally labels himself a coward. Nevertheless, he has little choice but to follow in his father's footsteps.

When Harry's regiment is finally summoned to go to war in the Sudan, Harry's fear of his own cowardice overcomes his fear of his father, and he accordingly resigns his commission. Once three of Harry's closest companions uncover the reason for his decision to resign, they decide to each send him a single white feather to signify his cowardice.

What ensues is a story of Harry's heroic attempts at redemption, not only from his friends and from his father, but also from the girl of Harry's dreams, who, being present at the time Harry receives the feathers, adds her own to the original three.

Throughout the exciting events and plot twists of The Four Feathers, Mason presents to readers a reality of human emotions and impulses which cannot draw comparison. The characters of The Four Feathers explore the complexities of humanity, loyalty, friendships, love, courage, and justice in such a fashion that each reader can relate to in his or her own individual way, making each turning of the page even more personal and captivating than the last. The three most primary characters of The Four Feathers, Harry, Ethne Eustace, and Jack Durrance, become involved in a triangle of love, loyalty, and misleading each other about how each feels about the other two in order to try and preserve these traits.

Mason's novel, The Four Feathers, is highly recommended for all those seeking an exciting romantic adventure to capture their attention for hours on end. There is no question that Mason's work is one of the masterpieces of twentieth century literature.

I loved this book. It gave a lot of cool fact's and even had tests and quizes inside. Plus very cool pics of Heath. I definitely would recomend it.

I loved this book.

It was a little hard for me to read, but I finally made it.

The pics were hot. He's a hottie. Dang!

The reason I gave it only 4 stars is because there were no nude pictures included. Dang.

Anywhoo, I loved it.

I love YOU Heath.
Heath, if you're reading this, I just want you to know that I'd do anything (ANYTHING) for you... wink, wink...

Peace out.
Word to your mother.

- Nicole "Nikki-Lynn" Morgan

I got this book because I really like Heath Ledger. The sad thing is that this is just another one of those teen-idols books. It does give a lot of good information and has great pictures, but it could have been better. If you like Heath, I think you should buy it, but you can only take the quiz in the back so many times. I would recommend since you can take it places where you can't watch 10 Things I Hate About You or A Night's Tale. This is a good book, but the pictures really were the best part.

This Book I Have To Say Is The Bomb!!!

FOR STARTERS, LET ME SAY THAT I THINK PRETTY HIGHLY OF THIS FILM. HOWEVER, THIS IS NOT A FILM THAT WARRANTS THE EXTRA MONEY TO GO BLU-RAY.

I OWN THIS TITLE ON DVD AND BLU, AND FRANKLY, I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE MY BLU MONEY BACK. THERE IS NOT A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN EITHER PICTURE OR SOUND QUALITY. WITH A FAIRLY LARGE COLLECTION OF STANDARD AND HIGH DEF FILMS, THIS IS JUST ONE THAT IS NOT WORTH THE EXTRA MONEY IN MY OPINION.

I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THOUGH, THIS FILM IS WELL WORTH THE COST OF A STANDARD DVD AND WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT ADDITION TO ANY COLLECTION.

This story is a great family title with a great story line that impresses on the family values and togetherness.

They did a great job transferring this to Blu-ray. It was dazzling in detail. It was all that I hoped for, in an older title that has be re-released.

The Patriot DVD

Mel Gibson is a pacifist who live in South Carolina circa 1776. His pacifism was caused by the violence he saw during the French and Indian War that he fought in. Heath Ledger plays his almost grown son.

Highly recommended for fans of the American Revolutionary war, Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger.

Gunner April, 2008

I like how he doesn't want to fight. He just wants to live in peace and raise his family and tend his crops.

Just like American patriots to this day he did not want war. No, we are a God fearing, peaceful people. But, if our freedom is under attack and our country needs us then we will accept the call to duty. Freedom is not free.

This is the true American spirit and even though Australian, Mel Gibson understands it very well. Perhaps it is his faith that ties him together with us. As in a previous film, "Braveheart", Gibson is a good man forced into action by circumstances beyond his control to fight the English. And when he does, put on your rain coat because there will be blood, and lots of it, pouring and spraying everywhere. If there ain't a lot of blood shed it's not a Mel Gibson movie. Farmer Mel does the Lord's work, quickly turning into an axe weilding colonial Rambo killing machine. I suppose one shouldn't be surprised at his dispatching of a fairly large number of Red Coats with such efficiency. The peoples' blood lust shall be satisfied with just killings of the wicked. And the English surely are wicked and cruel, at one point burning to the ground a little white chapel filled with innocents. No wonder our brave countrymen fought the Revolution. And watching this vivid and moving history you know God was on our side.

Actually, the movie is pretty fascist in it's conception. Leni Riefenstahl would love it. It does make you wonder when something like this is popular what percentage of the masses, particularly the peasantry, is inherently fascist in it's politics. Or if not inherently, at least very prone. Scary.

FOR STARTERS, LET ME SAY THAT I THINK PRETTY HIGHLY OF THIS FILM. HOWEVER, THIS IS NOT A FILM THAT WARRANTS THE EXTRA MONEY TO GO BLU-RAY.

I OWN THIS TITLE ON DVD AND BLU, AND FRANKLY, I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE MY BLU MONEY BACK. THERE IS NOT A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN EITHER PICTURE OR SOUND QUALITY. WITH A FAIRLY LARGE COLLECTION OF STANDARD AND HIGH DEF FILMS, THIS IS JUST ONE THAT IS NOT WORTH THE EXTRA MONEY IN MY OPINION.

I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THOUGH, THIS FILM IS WELL WORTH THE COST OF A STANDARD DVD AND WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT ADDITION TO ANY COLLECTION.

This story is a great family title with a great story line that impresses on the family values and togetherness.

They did a great job transferring this to Blu-ray. It was dazzling in detail. It was all that I hoped for, in an older title that has be re-released.

The Patriot DVD

Mel Gibson is a pacifist who live in South Carolina circa 1776. His pacifism was caused by the violence he saw during the French and Indian War that he fought in. Heath Ledger plays his almost grown son.

Highly recommended for fans of the American Revolutionary war, Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger.

Gunner April, 2008

I like how he doesn't want to fight. He just wants to live in peace and raise his family and tend his crops.

Just like American patriots to this day he did not want war. No, we are a God fearing, peaceful people. But, if our freedom is under attack and our country needs us then we will accept the call to duty. Freedom is not free.

This is the true American spirit and even though Australian, Mel Gibson understands it very well. Perhaps it is his faith that ties him together with us. As in a previous film, "Braveheart", Gibson is a good man forced into action by circumstances beyond his control to fight the English. And when he does, put on your rain coat because there will be blood, and lots of it, pouring and spraying everywhere. If there ain't a lot of blood shed it's not a Mel Gibson movie. Farmer Mel does the Lord's work, quickly turning into an axe weilding colonial Rambo killing machine. I suppose one shouldn't be surprised at his dispatching of a fairly large number of Red Coats with such efficiency. The peoples' blood lust shall be satisfied with just killings of the wicked. And the English surely are wicked and cruel, at one point burning to the ground a little white chapel filled with innocents. No wonder our brave countrymen fought the Revolution. And watching this vivid and moving history you know God was on our side.

Actually, the movie is pretty fascist in it's conception. Leni Riefenstahl would love it. It does make you wonder when something like this is popular what percentage of the masses, particularly the peasantry, is inherently fascist in it's politics. Or if not inherently, at least very prone. Scary.

Had I viewed the content of this book prior to purchasing, It would not be in my library.

THIS IS FOR THOSE THAT THINK THEY KNOW ALL ABOUT THE FILM. BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. DON'T THINK THIS IS EASE. IT'S NOT BUT A LOT OF FUN. GLAD I HAVE IT. HAVE A BBM MOVIE NIGHT THE BRING OUT THE BOOK. IT'S LIKE SCENE IT!

91 pages and more than 5 of those (double sided) are totally blank. Most of the rest of the book is multiple choice questions and there are four of those to a page. It has very large type to take up a lot of space where there could have been some information. It's easy to see that it's for pre-teens. The short story is a work of art, the screenplay is a work of art, and the movie is Ang Lee's work of art. This doesn't fall into that category at all. It's a pop quiz to see if you paid attention while watching the movie. As someone who liked the film I think this book is offending, especially since they actually charge for it. I have collected some "Brokeback Mountain" memorabilia and was hoping this would be a nice addition. I couldn't believe how bad this thing was and sent it back. Didn't waste any time doing it either.

I enjoyed this trivia book immensely...even me who is an ardent fan of the movie and saw it 7 times in the theatre...had trouble with some of the trivia...but once you glance through it, it makes you want to watch the movie again...and believe me, it takes you back to BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN...unbelievable....and enjoyable....

Just received my copy of this little book, a sweet homage to a film that changed my life forever! This was actually a birthday gift from a friend who knew how much I loved the film. Since I've marked some of the answers to the questions in my book, I guess I'll have to order another copy! If you are a fan of the amazing, unforgettable film, then this is the perfect book to add to your collection!