Director Ang Lee released his superhero film Hulk in US theaters June 20, 2003, to mixed reviews. Based on the Marvel Comics character the Incredible Hulk, the movie starred Eric Bana, Jennifer Connelly, Sam Elliott, and Nick Nolte.
Although reviews were mixed, it topped the box office in its first weekend beating Finding Nemo, earning $62.1M, making it the 16th highest-ever opening at the time. Roger Ebert gave it a positive review, and he doesn't seem to like anything.
Hulk was nominated for five Saturn Awards, but was up against X2, Return of the King, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
Ang Lee's controversial, critically acclaimed movie Brokeback Mountain was nominated for 8 Critics' Choice Awards and took home three trophies at the 11th annual ceremony held January 9, 2006. It won Best Picture and Lee won Best Director. Michelle Williams tied for Best Supporting Actress with Amy Adams. A foretaste of numerous awards to come.
Heath Ledger was nominated for Best Actor and Jake Gyllenhaal was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana were nominated for Best Writing. Brokeback Mountain was also nominated for Best Composer and Best Song. I don't remember a song being in the movie.
March of the Penguins won Best Documentary. I was happy to see that because it was a very good movie. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would watch it again.
John Williams won Best Composer for Memoirs of a Geisha. I didn't see this movie, but I wonder if Williams (no relation to Michelle Williams, I'm sure) is tired of winning awards for his music?
Dame Judi Dench should have won Best Actress for her performance in Mrs. Henderson Presents, but lost to Reese Witherspoon.
Surprise! Peter Jackson's remake of King Kong won an award for Distinguished Achievement in Performing Arts. I think it's great when a science fiction movie or monster movie is recognized in any way. The Critics' Choice included it in their ten nominees for Best Picture.
George Clooney (swoon!) won the Freedom Award for his performance in Good Night, and Good Luck.
