Matt Damon & Michael Douglas as you've never seen them before

Rating: 9/10 (17 July 2013)

Michael Douglas stars as Liberace and Matt Damon as his young lover Scott. This story is about their relationship from the latter's point of view and is in parts drama, dark comedy and horror. The drama is in the pathetic and inevitable cycle of their relationship with the tragedy of addiction and aids on the side. The comedy is scattered through out and is provided by the grotesque entourage. The predatory nature of their relationship is quite horrific especially the intimate moments.
Watching these actors stretch their acting abilities is quite amazing. Matt Damon gives an intense dramatic performance. He looks younger than of late even if a bit older than the character he is playing. Michael Douglas usually doesn't do biopics so it's fascinating to see him act as someone else instead of a fictional character. He does a good job suggesting Liberace without overacting getting his voice and mannerisms while not being too campy. Watch out for the supporting cast too especially an unrecognizable Debbie Reynolds as Liberace's mother and Rob Lowe - hilarious as an amphetamine pushing doctor from hell.
The makeup is good transforming them into the characters and through their weight and plastic surgery changes. The mansions, cars, pianos and flamboyant shows are all there. Impressive for a TV movie. Well done Sodebergh. Deserves an Emmy or Golden Globe.