Riding bareback has its price.

Rating: 8/10 (22 May 2014)

Loosely based on true events, this drama stars Matthew McConaughey as Ron Woodroof, a long tall Texan, who lived for drinking, smoking heavy, snorting cocaine and bull riding. But the bulls weren't the only thing Ron rode bareback...he also had a craving for frequent and casual sex, at a price. Woodroof was openly racist and homophobic, who would be considered courageous after being diagnosed as HIV+. Angry and in deep denial after being told he had to get his affairs in order with probably thirty days to live, if lucky; Ron began gathering all the information he could about what would become called AIDS. It is 1985, and doctors have yet to have all the answers to the questions. Determined not to die of a "faggot's" disease; Woodroof would be enlightened that the new disease was not limited to homosexuals.
The drug AZT was known through clinical trials to help fight AIDS; but other experimental drugs were yet to be government-approved. Ron trying to put what was left of his thirty days to good use, would begin smuggling drugs from Mexico to prolong lives of others suffering from the AIDS epidemic. Skirting as many laws fighting him as he could, Woodroof would organize a "buyers club"...not selling the drugs, but charging for his services.
McConaughey is more than brilliant and his dedication is obvious in getting his body in physical condition to fit the gaunt role. Also outstanding is Jared Leto, who plays Rayon, a trans-gendered-minded friend and foe. Others of note: Jennifer Garner and Griffin Dunne. Rounding out the cast: Steve Zahn, Denis O'Hare, Kevin Rankin, Dallas Roberts and Donna Duplantier.