This weekend "Dallas Buyers Club" premiered at the Toronto Film Festival to rave reviews, promising to stir up the Oscar race once again.
Starring Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto, the movie tells the story of a Texas electrician Ron Woodroof and his battle with the medical establishment and pharmaceutical companies after being diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1986.
The movie has been on many pundits' Oscar lists, especially for Matthew McConaughey's performance. However, after the movie's premiere it seems "Dallas Buyers Club" could be a Best Picture contender as well. Jordan Hoffman of Film.com wrote, "The fireworks caused by pitting never-say-die Texas bravado against heartlessness is a powerful mix, and the film manages to be an inspiring tale amidst all this sadness."
Drew McWeeny of Hitfix gave the film an A-. "When people write the history of how cinema processed HIV and AIDS in the late 20th century and beyond, 'Dallas Buyers Club' will definitely be part of that conversation," wrote McWeeny.
The Playlist's Kevin Jagernauth was also positive: " ... While the film might not drop the cumulative emotional anchor you may expect...it's a smartly entertaining tale, delivered with respect for its subject matter, but also wisely knows you can be fun and funny even in the arena of an AIDS drama."
Peter Debruge of Variety was also enthusiastic about the film and stated, "Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto give terrific performances in this riveting and surprisingly relatable true story."
The movie is directed by Jean-Marc Vallee ("The Young Victoria") and also stars Jennifer Garner, Steve Azahn and Dallas Roberts. Focus Features will release the movie on Nov. 1. It is rated rated R for pervasive language, some strong sexual content, nudity and drug use.
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