Michelle Williams Shades ‘Crash’ as Best Picture Win is Revisited on ‘Watch What Happens Live’

In a candid moment during her guest appearance on Andy Cohen’s Watch What Happens Live on Thursday, actress Michele Williams took a thoughtful and humorous jab at the 2006 Academy Award winner for Best Picture, Crash. The discussion arose as part of Williams’ promotion of her new television series, Dying for Sex, where she reflected on her breakthrough performance in the ground-breaking film Brokeback Mountain, which subsequently lost to Crash in a decision that sparked significant controversy within the film industry. Williams and Cohen explored the varying impacts these films had during their respective releases, with Williams’ remarks serving not only as a trip down memory lane but also as a cultural critique.

Key Highlights from the Discussion

• Michelle Williams expressed surprise over the continuing legacy of Crash.
• She noted the emotional reactions of audiences during Brokeback Mountain press events.
• Williams reflected on the historic importance of Brokeback Mountain in the context of LGBTQ+ representation in cinema.

A Candid Reflection on ‘Brokeback Mountain’

During the interview, Cohen praised Brokeback Mountain as a pivotal film of its time, remarking, “I think it’s still in my top two movies of all time.” He asked Williams whether she foresaw the profound influence the movie would have when it was being made. Williams acknowledged this impact, recalling, “Yes, because people were so open about it,” and emphasized that the emotional reactions during promotions demonstrated the film’s importance.

She added, “I remember doing the junket, you don’t get an opportunity to see a lot of grown men cry, and that was the moment that we all knew it was going to be special to people.”

Controversy Over Best Picture Decision

The conversation soon shifted to the Academy Awards, where Brokeback Mountain was heavily favored to win Best Picture after dominating numerous precursor awards. Cohen couldn’t help but express his disappointment regarding the outcome, stating, “I was very upset about the Best Picture loss. I mean, Crash? Is that what won?”

With a smirk and playful demeanor, Williams responded with a tongue-in-cheek question: “I mean, what was Crash?” This drew laughs from both the audience and Cohen, highlighting the persistent divide in opinions about the two films.

Williams’ Iconic Role in ‘Brokeback Mountain’

In the film, Williams portrayed Alma, the wife of Heath Ledger’s character, who struggles with the complexities of love and fidelity amid her husband’s secret romance with another man played by Jake Gyllenhaal. The film, directed by Ang Lee, challenged societal norms and created conversations about LGBTQ+ relationships and love, marking a milestone in cinema at the time.

Cultural Impact of ‘Brokeback Mountain’ vs. ‘Crash’

While *Brokeback Mountain* received glowing critical reviews, significant box office success, and numerous awards leading up to the Oscars, including Best Director for Ang Lee, the win for *Crash* has been widely debated in the years since. Critics have frequently pointed to the nuanced storytelling and emotional depth of *Brokeback Mountain* as a chief reason it deserved the top award.

What Do Audiences Think Today?

As the discussion wound down, Andy Cohen surveyed the audience’s reaction to the debate, playfully asking, “Who’s talking about Crash right now?” His question prompted headshakes and laughter from Williams, suggesting that the film’s cultural relevance has significantly diminished compared to the enduring legacy of *Brokeback Mountain*. Cohen humorously observed, “I hear a pin drop,” emphasizing the unpopularity of *Crash* in contemporary conversations.

Conclusion: Revisiting Iconic Films

The exchange on *Watch What Happens Live* illustrates how both *Brokeback Mountain* and *Crash* still resonate with audiences nearly two decades after their Oscar showdown. While Williams holds her groundbreaking role close to her heart, the discussion serves as a reminder of the shifting perspectives on storytelling, representation, and the politics of award shows within Hollywood and larger society. The spirited exchange stands as a testament to the lasting impact *Brokeback Mountain* had on cinema and culture, igniting conversations that continue today.

As we continue to revisit these iconic films, the question remains: What truly defines a film’s legacy?

Keywords: Michelle Williams, Crash, Brokeback Mountain, Andy Cohen, Watch What Happens Live, Best Picture, Oscars, LGBTQ+ representation, film industry, Paul Haggis.

Hashtags: #MichelleWilliams #Crash #BrokebackMountain #Oscars #FilmDiscussion #LGBTQRepresentation

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