Dear Fans of "The Front Runner":

As "Brokeback Mountain" nears domestic release, the industry buzz surrounding this film is tremendous. Here at Wildcat, our phones have been busy with people asking for our reaction to this "first mainstream gay love story." Many of my readers have expressed great disappointment that "Brokeback Mountain" may achieve a distinction they hoped that the film version of "The Front Runner" would have.

However, we don't share their disappointment.

We earnestly congratulate everyone who has been involved with "Brokeback Mountain," a remarkable project which -- like "The Front Runner" -- has spent years in development. We heartily commend all those who took an unprecedented risk on this courageous production and remained faithful to Annie Proulx's wonderful short story, which I read many years ago and have always admired.

I've screened "Brokeback Mountain" and, in my opinion, both the acting and production values are superb. I grew up in Montana ranch country, so I know real cowboys when I see them. The performances are deeply moving and convincing.

All of us at Wildcat wish this worthy production every success and accolade. For those who continue to ask us, there is a simple reason why "The Front Runner" hasn't become a motion picture yet. Up until now, most everyone interested in it wanted to produce a low-budget film. Unfortunately, you cannot faithfully recreate this love story, which is set against a background of the 1976 Olympics, for so little money.

So, my producer partner, Tyler St. Mark, and I have taken our own risk and held out. We anticipate that attitudes will change and the appropriate budget will finally come along. Until then, we heartily encourage you to support "Brokeback Mountain." If it does well at the box office, the film industry may be reassured that investing in a mainstream gay love story is not so risky, and other wonderful unfilmed stories can finally be seen on the big screen.

When that happens, we are confident that "The Front Runner" will find its own special place in film history.

Very truly yours,
Patricia Nell Warren