It’s a sad but inevitable fact that Rock Hudson – arguably one of the finest actors of his generation, a bonafide Hollywood heartthrob and the star of countless screens both big and small – is merely remembered for his death from AIDS at the tragic age of 59. The first major celebrity to die from an AIDS-related illness, Hudson’s death has somewhat overshadowed his amazing body of work for decades but in this new feature length documentary, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed, filmmaker Stephen Kijak attempts to re-balance the scales somewhat in what is arguably the definitive account of Hudson’s life.

Through an effortlessly curated collection of archive footage, new interviews and recontextualised film clips, Kijak paints a moving and meticulous portrait of one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, one that frequently peeks behind the movie star façade Rock created for himself to conceal his homosexuality. Every career highlight is here, from his frequent collaborations with director Douglas Sirk, his academy award nominated role in Giant (1956), his attempts to distance himself from his romantic comedy persona in films such as Seconds (1966) and his subsequent reinvention as a TV star in McMillan & Wife and Dynasty, with each success and failure explored and dissected in a manner seldom seen before.

It’s all these elements that make the film a must-see. At 105 minutes, it’s meticulous and incredibly detailed. Kijak is thorough, detailing all the highs and lows of Hudson’s distinguished career whilst simultaneously placing them and discussing them in the context of Hudson’s secret life as a closeted gay man. Kudos should also go to editor Claire Didier, whose careful curation of the various materials does much to broaden the emotional impact. The resulting portrait is detailed, nuanced and ultimately heartbreaking, yet equally affirming and powerful.

Biographies don’t come more insightful and exhaustive as this one. Bringing an obvious passion and knowledge for his subject to the film, Stephen Kijak delivers a piece that is comprehensive, no holds barred and, ultimately, devastating.

Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed is available on digital platforms from 23rd October

An Altitude Entertainment Production in association with Berlanti Schechter Films and Dog Star Films