Matthew McConaughey’s unbelievable transformation continues in Jean-Marc Vallee’s intriguing true story. Dallas Buyers Club tackles AIDS, homophobia, and the Hollywood-catnip arc of one man standing up to a corrupt system.

Set in the late ’80s, McConaughey undergoes a striking transformation to play Ron Woodroof, a foul-mouthed, AIDS-diagnosed bigot who takes on both the US government and American pharmaceutical companies when he discovers a drug supposed to make him better is actually worsening his condition. Admittedly, his steady diet of cocaine and alcohol doesn’t help. Devising a drug smuggling-and-dealing scam, Woodroof becomes a twisted Robin Hood, selling medicinal cocktails to other AIDS patients also hoping to buy precious time.

So far, so typically underdog. Vallee and McConaughey’s achievement lies in painting an intriguing yet uncompromising portrait of a mostly reprehensible character. Gaunt, with a Freddie Mercury moustache, McConaughey throws himself into this foul-mouthed homophobic character, driven entirely by selfishness and rage.

McConaughey’s foil is Jared Leto, who puts in a stunning performance as Rayon, a sensitive transsexual drug addict also suffering from the disease. Vallee doesn’t pit the pair as fast friends but gradual allies. Rayon, meanwhile, has to come to terms with his homophobic father, who mutters, “God help me.” “He is helping you,” Rayon spits. “I have AIDS.”

Vallee hedges his bets towards the climax, attempting to wrap us this complicated story in a neat bow. It’s a slight misstep in an otherwise stunning feat of movie-making.