Based on a true story, the film is directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and stars Matthew McConaughey, Jared Leto, and Jennifer Garner. In 1985, Dallas electrician Ron Woodroof (McConaughey), after a life of smoking and partying, is diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. In the hospital, he learns that one of the only FDA-approved treatments for the virus is AZT, an unproven drug. Dissatisfied with his options, Woodroof takes his treatment into his own hands and begins smuggling FDA-unapproved (but quite effective) drugs from all over the world, including Mexico, Japan, and Israel. With the help of his business partner, the HIV-positive transgender Rayon (Leto), Woodroof establishes a buyer's club, where patients receive the medication through monthly subscriptions. Caught in the middle is Dr. Eve Saks (Garner), Woodroof's physician at the hospital, who wants to adhere to medical ethics but also sympathizes with the plight of Woodroof, Rayon and others in their situation. First and most importantly, McConaughey and Leto are absolutely fantastic in the film. Both had to lose excessive amounts of weight to play HIV-afflicted patients, and their transformation is remarkable to watch. In a year with less competition, I would easily give both men Oscars (although Leto actually has a pretty good chance). The film is also very well done. The screenwriters and director take a very interesting and relevant topic and weave it into a captivating film; I was engrossed throughout. In all, it is one of the better films of 2013, and definitely deserves a look.
Should you see it: Yes
Grade: B+
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