Review of Behind the Candelabra (2013) by Mimi S — 06 Jun 2013

Grade: A+.

A high standard, phenominally acted and poignant film about the late Liberace, a piano genuis and his turbulant affair with his young aid, Scott Thorson. Both Michael Douglas, who plays Liberace and Matt Damon, who plays Scott Thorson, present an outstanding level of acting, both should get Oscars. The film is realistic and dramatic and the actors don't feel like actors, it feels like you're seeing the real thing. The only thing was that the film was a bit long, but other than that everything was excellent. Usually this isn't my sort of film, but it was really excellent. It's no Brokeback Mountain if that's what you're expecting.

I liked that the film wasn't terribly bleak, depressing and gormless like many dramas; it was colourful with all the sparkly costumes, camp air and bits of humour throughout, but at the same time it's sad and serious. I thought that the ending was very moving, I almost wanted to cry. I really would recommend this film strongly to those who haven't already seen it. One of the best films out this year.