Added to Crave on Monday, Mar 11, 2024 The Normal Heart vividly depicts the onset of the HIV-AIDS crisis in New York City between 1981 and 1984, through the eyes of writer and activist Ned Weeks. As the gay community faces the growing death toll and societal indifference, Ned battles for awareness and support, alongside Dr. Emma Brookner and fellow activists. The story highlights the struggle for acceptance, the fight against government apathy, and the personal toll of the crisis, ending on a note of love, loss, and ongoing resistance against discrimination.
Length: 2h 12m
Genre: Drama, History, Romance
This Title is: Heartbreaking, Inspiring
The Normal Heart is New on Crave in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Mark Ruffalo as Ned Weeks
- Matt Bomer as Felix Turner
- Julia Roberts as Dr. Emma Brookner
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: TV-MA
Contains themes of illness, mortality, and discrimination.
Trivia
- Mark Ruffalo was initially hesitant to accept his role, advocating for a gay actor to play Ned Weeks, but accepted at Ryan Murphy’s insistence.
- The film received critical acclaim for its powerful portrayal of the early AIDS crisis, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 94%.
- Matt Bomer lost 40 pounds for his role to authentically depict the physical toll of AIDS on his character.
Our Review
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The Normal Heart merges historical importance with emotional depth, offering a moving portrayal of the early AIDS crisis. Critics laud the screenplay, performances, and the film’s ability to convey the urgency and despair of the period. While its adherence to the stage play’s intensity might not appeal to all, the collective performances, especially Ruffalo’s passionate portrayal of Ned Weeks, elevate this film beyond mere historical recounting. Its powerful narrative serves as a reminder of a dark period in history, marking it as essential viewing.
Critic Scores
The Normal Heart has received a great review by the critics.
