Behind the Candelabra

Skip the formulaic version of this genre — Behind the Candelabra, in Australia on Stan, and in the US on HBO Max Amazon Channel, earns its romantic beats. The length is exactly right for the story it is telling — nothing rushed, nothing dragged out. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Michael Douglas is the anchor, and the chemistry with the rest of the cast carries every scene. Start it on Stan whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Behind the Candelabra is not trying to be everything to everyone, and that focus is exactly what makes it work. Behind the Candelabra treats its central relationship as something worth taking seriously. Based on the autobiographical novel, the tempestuous 6-year relationship between Liberace and his (much younger) lover, Scott Thorson, is recounted. Michael Douglas and Matt Damon lead a cast that makes the relationship feel genuine, not scripted. Behind the Candelabra came out in 2013. Romance lives or dies on chemistry, and Behind the Candelabra has it in the cast combination that the writers chose to put at the centre of everything. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For anyone who wants romantic drama that respects their intelligence, Behind the Candelabra is a strong recommendation. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Michael Douglas's performance makes the emotional stakes feel real, not manufactured. Worth watching alone or with someone who shares your taste.

Behind the Candelabra was released in 2013, directed by Steven Soderbergh. The full 118-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.