Review of Behind the Candelabra (2013) by Joshua S — 29 May 2013

I saw this Liberace biopic, and directorial swansong of Steven Soderbergh, with very little prior knowledge of the extravagant performer himself. I was blown away by this true story, which following some research appears to be a fair portrayal of events if a little generous of Matt Damon's deeply troubled Scott Thorson.

What is most striking and impressive about this HBO production are, without a doubt, the spellbinding and blackly comic performances from Michael Douglas, as Liberace, and the aforementioned Damon. It is refreshing to see Hollywood A-listers approaching such roles, that only 20 years ago would have been seen as toxic to ones career; it says a lot and supports the underlying themes of celebrity loneliness, gay rights and the toll the AIDS epidemic took on the gay community in the 80s.

It saddens me to say that in the screening I attended, people walked out at the far from graphic sex scenes. In 6/9 months time I hope Behind the Candelabra is acknowledged in awards session with best actor/supporting actor nods or at least recognition of the fantastic makeup and costume work.

Highly recommended.