Tuesday 29 October 2013

A Scottish Wrestling Fan’s Journey to the Candelabra


On November 5th, the SouthSide Film Festival are showing this year’s hit movie, Behind The Candelabra focusing on the fascinating true story of outrageous pianist/entertainer Liberace and his lover Scott Thorson. 

You may have read the title and wondered what exactly my journey was to this movie. Well, I’m a huge fan of American wrestling. You know Hulk Hogan and The Rock type of stuff. Anyway, when I was younger I got a videotape of the first ever ‘WrestleMania’ event from 1985. The main event was packed with stars like Hulk Hogan, Muhammad Ali as a referee but the one man, that I never forgot was the guest time keeper for the evening, Liberace. He danced around the wrestling ring in an outrageous outfit with The Rockettes. That image remained with me for over 20 years.



A couple of years ago, I remember reading an article in the Metro newspaper about a new movie on the life of Liberace. I immediately pictured the dancing pianist from back in 1990 on VHS. Fast forward to 2013, add in an outstanding performance from Michael Douglas as ‘Lee’ and a mesmerizing performance by Matt Damon as his lover, Scott and you have Behind The Candelabra. This movie is can’t miss. From the camp, catchy showtunes to the moments of real emotion and harsh truths of celebrity, you won’t be disappointed.



The film will be shown at The Glad Cafe at 8pm as part of our Autumn Film Club. Doors open at 7:30. Tickets are £6 (£5 for concessions) and are available directly at the Glad Cafe or online from Tickets Scotland (booking fee applies)

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