Diana Ossana: The Creative Force Behind Brokeback Mountain
Diana Ossana is an accomplished writer and producer whose keen eye for storytelling helped bring one of the most influential films of the 21st century to the screen. Born to an Italian immigrant father, Livio A.A. Ossana, and Marian (Anyan), who was of Irish and Welsh heritage, Ossana grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. Her academic foundation was built at Eastern New Mexico University, where she pursued a double major in English and political science before relocating to Arizona in 1977.
The Genesis of Brokeback Mountain
The trajectory of Ossana's career shifted significantly on October 13, 1997, when she read Annie Proulx's short story "Brokeback Mountain" in The New Yorker. Recognizing the cinematic potential of the narrative, she immediately approached her writing partner, Larry McMurtry, to discuss the possibility of adapting the piece into a screenplay.
Despite the initial skepticism of the original author, Annie Proulx—who did not believe the story had movie potential—she granted Ossana and McMurtry an option (a contract giving them the exclusive right to purchase the story for a film) to develop the script. The duo worked diligently, completing the screenplay by early 1998.
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Critical Success and Industry Recognition
The resulting film, released in the United States in December 2005, became a global phenomenon. Ossana's contributions as both a writer and producer were recognized with some of the highest honors in the entertainment industry. The screenplay earned the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, alongside wins from the Golden Globes, BAFTA, and the Writers Guild of America.
Beyond the writing, Ossana served as a producer, a role that saw her joining the cast and crew during the three-month production period in Canada. Her production work earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Drama and a shared Best Film award with James Schamus.
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Key Facts
- Education: Double majored in English and political science at Eastern New Mexico University.
- Major Work: Co-wrote the screenplay for Brokeback Mountain with Larry McMurtry.
- Key Awards: Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA for Best Adapted Screenplay.
- Production Role: Served as a producer during the film's three-month shoot in Canada.
- Film Accolades: The film won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.
| Award Body | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Awards | Best Adapted Screenplay | Won |
| Golden Globes | Best Screenplay / Best Picture - Drama | Won |
| BAFTA | Best Adapted Screenplay / Best Film | Won |
| Venice Film Festival | Golden Lion (Best Film) | Won |
| Writers Guild of America | Screenplay | Won |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Diana Ossana collaborate with on the Brokeback Mountain script?
Diana Ossana collaborated with her writing partner, Larry McMurtry, to adapt the short story into a screenplay.
How did Annie Proulx react to the idea of a movie adaptation?
Annie Proulx initially did not see the potential for a movie in her story, though she did agree to grant the option to Ossana and McMurtry.
What awards did Diana Ossana win as a producer?
As a producer, she won the Golden Globe Award for Best Drama and a Best Film award shared with James Schamus.
Where was the film Brokeback Mountain shot?
The film was shot in Canada over a period of three months.
Where does Diana Ossana currently live?
Diana Ossana currently resides in Arizona.