Dallas Buyers Club

Last night I saw Dallas Buyers Club, an American biographical drama film. This movie takes place in Dallas, Texas when the HIV epidemic hits its peak. This true story is based off Ron Woodroof's (Matthew McConaughey) battle to overcome HIV. The film introduces Ron as a an out of control homophobic who is addicted to drugs, partying, and getting into trouble. Ron is diagnosed with HIV after he visits the hospital because of a minor injury at work. When the doctors predict he has merely 30 days to live, Ron begins to take the only FDA-approved drug (AZT) to treat his illness. Unfortunately, like most patients with HIV who took this drug, he almost dies because of its side effects.  Ron realizes that the only way he will survive is if he finds other remedies. He begins to smuggle anti-viral medications from all over the world in order to treat himself. Other AIDS patients begin to ask Ron for his effective drugs. In result, with the help of a fellow AIDS patient Rayon (Jared Leto), Ron forms the Dallas Buyers Club. Members pay money to receive an endless amount of helpful drugs. With many buyers clubs forming, the FDA and pharmaceutical companies quickly take action to stop the "illegal" drug flow. This creates another battle that Ron and his club members are forced to face.  

The acting in this film is absolutely incredible. Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto are truly versatile performers that will do anything in order to portray a character correctly. To play a believable AIDS patient, both actors lost an overwhelming amount of weight for each role. These actors appear to be extremely malnourished which adds to the reality of the film. In addition, Jared Leto's depiction of a transgender was finominal and Matthew McConaughey has never been better. I will not be surprised if McConaughey or Leto get nominated for an Oscar. 

Jared Leto

Before

After

   

Matthew McConaughey

Before

  

After