10. Behind The Candelabra (2013)
Imagine a movie about the flamboyant pianist Liberace, starring Michael Douglas and Matt Damon portraying Liberace’s lover, Scott Thorson. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, ‘Behind the Candelabra’ delves into the final decade of Liberace’s life and his complex relationship with Thorson. Despite its star power and acclaimed direction, the film faced challenges securing a theatrical release due to its LGBTQ+ themes.
9. Live from Baghdad (2002)
Set during the first Gulf War, ‘Live from Baghdad’ is a powerful drama that premiered on HBO as the second Gulf War commenced. Michael Keaton and Helena Bonham Carter lead the film as a CNN producer and his associate, chronicling their experiences as the only American news outlet in Baghdad during the war’s buildup.
8. Iron Jawed Angels (2004)
Before women gained the right to vote in the U.S., activists like Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) fought relentlessly for their cause. ‘Iron Jawed Angels’ dramatizes the suffragette movement, highlighting Paul’s confrontational approach that led to imprisonment and abuse.
7. You Don’t Know Jack (2010)
Al Pacino delivers a captivating performance as Dr. Jack Kevorkian, a pioneer in assisted suicide. The film explores Kevorkian’s public advocacy for euthanasia and his legal battles, challenging societal norms and sparking ethical debates.
6. The Normal Heart (2014)
‘The Normal Heart’ portrays the early days of the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 1980s through the eyes of Ned Weeks (Mark Ruffalo). As the virus spreads within the gay community, Ned and others grapple with ignorance and denial, while Dr. Emma Brookner (Julia Roberts) fights for recognition of the epidemic.
5. Something the Lord Made (2004)
Alan Rickman and Mos Def shine in ‘Something the Lord Made,’ a tale of racial injustice within the field of cardiac surgery. Despite his groundbreaking contributions, Vivien Thomas (Mos Def) is overshadowed by his white colleague, Dr. Alfred Blalock (Rickman).
4. Temple Grandin (2010)
Claire Danes won an Emmy for her portrayal of Temple Grandin, an autistic woman who revolutionized the treatment of livestock. The film follows Temple’s struggles with autism and her pioneering work in animal welfare.
3. Deadwood: The Movie (2019)
Thirteen years after the beloved series ended prematurely, ‘Deadwood: The Movie’ provided closure for fans. Ian McShane reprises his iconic role as Al Swearengen, leading a star-studded cast through a fitting conclusion to the epic Western saga.
2. 61* (2001)
Billy Crystal directed this critically acclaimed sports film, capturing the historic 1961 season when Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris chased Babe Ruth’s home run record. ’61*’ brings the legendary rivalry to life, examining the pressure and expectations faced by these baseball icons.
1. Game Change (2012)
‘Game Change’ goes behind the scenes of the 2008 presidential election, focusing on Republican candidate John McCain (Ed Harris) and his unconventional choice of Sarah Palin (Julianne Moore) as his running mate. The film delves into the dynamics of power, ambition, and the impact of Palin’s inexperience on the campaign.
