Behind the Candelabra

About Behind the Candelabra

"Behind the Candelabra" is a 2013 drama film directed by Steven Soderbergh. It is a biographical film about the last ten years of the life of music icon Władziu Valentino Liberace, more commonly known as Liberace. The film primarily focuses on his tumultuous relationship with his younger lover, Scott Thorson.

Making/Production

Steven Soderbergh directed "Behind the Candelabra" with a screenplay written by Richard LaGravenese, based on Scott Thorson's memoir "Behind the Candelabra: My Life with Liberace" (1988). The film was produced by HBO and was released in the United States on May 26, 2013.

Actors

• Michael Douglas (Liberace): Douglas delivers a transformative performance as the celebrated pianist and vocalist, known for his extravagant lifestyle and glittering costumes.
• Matt Damon (Scott Thorson): Damon convincingly portrays Scott Thorson, a young man from foster care, who is taken up by Liberace and enters his lavish world.
• Debbie Reynolds (Frances Liberace): Reynolds brilliantly plays the role of Liberace's loving but formidable mother.
• Rob Lowe (Dr. Jack Startz): Lowe features as Liberace's unnervingly smooth-faced plastic surgeon.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The flamboyant costumes in the film are replicas of Liberace's own outrageous outfits.
• Michael Douglas learned to mimic Liberace's piano playing style for the role.
• Despite its theatrical narratives, the film was a television movie premiered on HBO.

Awards

"Behind the Candelabra" won multiple awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Miniseries or Television Film. Both Douglas and Damon received praise for their performances and garnered awards and nominations.

Quotes

• "Too much of a good thing is wonderful" - Liberace.
• "I want to be everything to you, Scott. I want to be father, brother, lover, best friend." - Liberace to Scott Thorson.

Music/Soundtrack

• "The Liberace Boogie" performed by The Residents.
• "The Impossible Dream" performed by Michael Douglas.
• "Love Again" performed by Michael Douglas and Matt Damon.