Behind the Candelabra
Performance & Direction: Behind the Candelabra Review
Last updated: February 2, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Behind the Candelabra (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Behind the Candelabra features a noteworthy lineup led by Michael Douglas . Supported by the likes of Matt Damon and Dan Aykroyd , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Behind the Candelabra
Quick Plot Summary: Behind the Candelabra is a Drama, Romance film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Based on the autobiographical novel, the tempestuous 6-year relationship between Liberace and his (much younger) lover, Scott Thorson, is recounted. The screenplay takes time to develop its characters, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Behind the Candelabra
Ending Breakdown: Behind the Candelabra concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Behind the Candelabra reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Behind the Candelabra Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Behind the Candelabra uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a drama, romance film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Behind the Candelabra adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Behind the Candelabra?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Behind the Candelabra
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $23.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $15.6M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Behind the Candelabra Budget
The estimated production budget for Behind the Candelabra is $23.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Behind the Candelabra
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Behind the Candelabra Online?
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VI movies and tvBehind the Candelabra Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about Behind the Candelabra age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Behind the Candelabra is 118 minutes (1h 58m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, Behind the Candelabra is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Behind the Candelabra worth watching?
Behind the Candelabra is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Behind the Candelabra parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Behind the Candelabra identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Behind the Candelabra?
The total duration of Behind the Candelabra is 118 minutes, which is approximately 1h 58m long.
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Critic Reviews for Behind the Candelabra
Terrific. First and foremost, I have to admit I knew nothing about Liberace - other than his name - before viewing this, therefore I don't know how much of it is accurate, made-up, exaggerated etc. That didn't stop me enjoying it, though. Michael Douglas (Liberace) and Matt Damon (Scott) do do a lot of the heavy lifting, both of them give tremendous performances - especially Douglas. They actually worked very well together, perfect casting. I found Rob Lowe amusing in this, not sure if I was supposed to but I did - not in a negative way in regards to Lowe, just the character of Dr. Jack Startz. Debbie Reynolds (Frances) and Dan Aykroyd (Seymour) also appear, two well-known people playing relatively small roles. The film looks great, it perhaps lasts a little too long when all is said and done but it didn't hamper my enjoyment all that much. 'Behind the Candelabra' is a very good biopic.
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
