Tragic Reminder of Not Too Long Ago

Rating: 8/10 (18 November 2014)

I worked as an AIDS Hospice Volunteer in the 90's and seeing firsthand the despair and loneliness experienced by these victims helped identify with the characters portrayed in this film. Extremely moving story with exceptional performances provided an educational and inspiring vehicle for audiences worldwide.
The transformation of Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto was alarming as they were nearly unidentifiable. The dedication to their craft seemed unhealthy and did not feel these extremes were necessary to convey the plot. Matthew's take on this role hovered on overly theatrical which sometimes invalidated the plight of his character. Tone it down darlin'. Leto on the other hand totally nailed Rayon and he sure does make quite an impression of beauty, tragedy, and compassion.
The availability of medical information on HIV/AIDS at that time was so restricted and limited, it was a testament of the will to survive that he overcame his death sentence for seven years. I am not aware of all the facts behind the scenes but know of many others with Chronic Illness who became their own advocate in researching treatments outside of conventional methods to pursue cures or improve quality of life. A sad disheartening statement is presented that demonstrates the divergent paths of Big Pharma and the lone patient desperate for help.
The LGBT community was extremely organized and powerful in achieving great strides to provide access to drugs that addressed this illness. I would have liked to see more of how they impacted the success of their plight for assistance however, the main character was not in this category so perhaps more emphasis would be inconsistent.
It was gratifying to see a gradual acceptance by a straight man of the LGBT community despite his profit motive. There is much room for improvement even at this date.
Overall, an inspiring look at one man's mission to overcome FDA, IRS, and DEA regulations to help his fellow sufferers. High Recommend.