Cast
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Matthew McConaughey
as Ron Woodroof
Jennifer Garner
as Eve
Jared Leto
as Rayon
Denis O'Hare
as Dr. Sevard
Steve Zahn
as Tucker
Michael O'Neill
as Richard Barkley
Dallas Roberts
as David Wayne
Griffin Dunne
as Dr. Vass
Kevin Rankin
as T.J.
Donna DuPlantier
as Nurse Frazin
Deneen Tyler
as Denise
J.D. Evermore
as Clint
Ian Casselberry
as Hispanic Orderly
Noelle Wilcox
as Kelly
Bradford Cox
as Sunny
Crew
Director
- Jean-Marc Vallée
Writer
- Craig Borten
- Melisa Wallack
Producer
- Robbie Brenner
- Rachel Winter
Reviews
furious_iz
**A powerful film about the will to survive and the coldness of big pharma**
Matthew McConaughey gives an amazing performance as Ron Woodroof the homophobic, hard partying electrician/rodeo cowboy who becomes HIV positive due to some poor lifestyle choices. Ostracised by his friends for having what was at the time considered a gay disease he goes on a damaging bender before discovering he has full blown AIDS.
When faced with a death sentence and ineffective drugs approved by the FDA, he heads to Mexico to source and import medication not available in the US, and decides to sell it to help himself and others while making a tidy profit.
Jared Leto is magnetic as Rayon, a drug addicted gay man who becomes Woodroof's business partner and eventually his friend. Both actors lost a significant amount of weight for the role, which lends real authenticity and gravity to the film.
Made on a shoestring budget, with little to no special effects, this film is all about the story and the performances. The battles with the FDA trying to circumvent red tape, and get people medication they desperately need is frustrating and all too realistic. Big pharma calls the shots, manipulates data and statistics and keeps peddling their toxic expensive medication, while Woodroof battles for the rights to treat himself with medicine he knows works.
It is a David and Goliath story, a look at an era when AIDS was virtually untreatable and running out of control. One man's battle against bureaucracy told with charm and panache.
8/10
Mar 20, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Dallas Buyers Club examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Jean-Marc Vallée brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dallas Buyers Club took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 368 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2013, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dallas Buyers Club shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Great Victory, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dallas Buyers Club offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Another Promise and Heavenly Creatures explore similar territory, Dallas Buyers Club stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 1, 2013
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Budget: $5,000,000
- Revenue: $55,736,588
