Rock Hudson, a name synonymous with Hollywood’s Golden Age, captivated audiences with his striking looks and commanding presence on screen. Beyond his acting prowess and romantic charm, one of Hudson’s most defining physical attributes was his impressive height. Standing tall in an industry often obsessed with image, Hudson’s stature contributed significantly to his persona as the epitome of American masculinity. A new HBO documentary, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed, directed by BU alum Stephen Kijak, delves into the multifaceted life of this iconic actor, exploring not just his towering physical presence, but also the hidden aspects of his life behind the glitz and glamour.
Stephen Kijak, the director of “Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed,” pictured in a promotional photo.
The documentary, now streaming on Max, meticulously chronicles Hudson’s journey from his early roles to his ascent as a leading man in the 1950s and 60s. It examines his iconic roles in Douglas Sirk’s melodramas and romantic comedies alongside Doris Day, and his impactful performance in Giant. But Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed goes beyond the celebrated filmography, venturing into the lesser-known aspects of Hudson’s life, including the carefully constructed facade surrounding his sexuality. Forced to conceal his gay identity to protect his career in a less tolerant era, Hudson navigated a double life, a central theme explored in Kijak’s compelling film. The documentary also highlights the tragic revelation of Hudson’s AIDS diagnosis in 1985 and his subsequent death, events that significantly shifted public perception of the disease and galvanized efforts towards finding treatments.
Stephen Kijak (COM’91), known for his insightful music documentaries, including Stones in Exile and Backstreet Boys: Show ’Em What You’re Made Of, initially knew little about Hudson’s personal life. This fresh perspective allowed him to approach the project with open eyes, eager to uncover the complexities of Hudson’s story. Kijak shares, “I actually like starting from that place and really being able to dig deep and learn all I can about a subject as part of the filmmaking process.” His documentary promises a nuanced portrayal of Rock Hudson, the movie star, and Rock Hudson, the man behind the carefully crafted image.
Unpacking the Height and Stardom of Rock Hudson: A Conversation with Director Stephen Kijak
To gain deeper insights into Rock Hudson’s life and the making of Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed, Bostonia engaged in a Q&A session with director Stephen Kijak.
Bostonia: What sparked the idea for this film, and what drew you to directing a documentary about Rock Hudson?
Stephen Kijak: The initial concept, developed by my producers, was titled “The Accidental Activist,” focusing on Rock’s unexpected impact on the AIDS crisis. I immediately recognized the potential for a more expansive narrative. Gaining access to the Rock Hudson Estate Collection provided a unique opportunity to delve into his life comprehensively. In a time when LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly challenged, shedding light on historical figures like Hudson becomes even more crucial.
Bostonia: What made Rock Hudson such a massive star? Was his height a factor?
Stephen Kijak: He possessed an undeniable star quality. His striking handsomeness, coupled with his towering height—he stood at an impressive 6 foot 5 inches—created a gentle giant persona. Interestingly, his hidden gay identity might have contributed to his romantic appeal, lending him a certain sensitivity that resonated on screen. His height definitely played into the image of a strong, masculine leading man that audiences adored.
Bostonia: What do you believe motivated Hudson as an actor?
Stephen Kijak: Acting was a lifelong ambition for him, fueled by a strong work ethic. He thrived in the studio system, dedicating himself to his craft. However, the studio system also meant he sometimes had to appear in less-than-stellar films. I believe he continually sought more substantial and respectable roles, and when he found them, they often became box office hits.
Rock Hudson, pictured on vacation in Puerto Vallarta, showcasing his tall stature even in a relaxed setting.
Bostonia: Despite living as a closeted gay man, Hudson seemed comfortable in his own skin and adept at portraying heterosexual roles. How did he navigate these contrasting worlds?
Stephen Kijak: Rock’s experience was reflective of many gay individuals before the Stonewall era. His fame, however, afforded him a degree of privilege. The studio machinery and publicists worked tirelessly to protect his image. The pre-social media era also offered a different level of privacy. For someone like Rock, his public persona as the epitome of virile heterosexuality was distinct from his private life, creating an inherent tension that he had to constantly manage.
Bostonia: Mark Griffin, Hudson’s biographer, played a significant role in the film. What was his contribution?
Stephen Kijak: Mark Griffin was invaluable as a friend and advisor. His extensive research, including over 100 interviews, many with people no longer living, provided crucial archival material. His insights and guidance were essential throughout the filmmaking process.
Bostonia: What was the timeline for creating this documentary?
Stephen Kijak: The film came together in about two years, which felt quite rapid. Key interviews with gay men who were part of Rock’s life, from lovers to close friends, were central to the narrative. These personal accounts span from the pre-Stonewall era to the AIDS crisis, offering a poignant generational perspective.
“I want his legacy in relation to the AIDS crisis to be seen alongside his great cinematic legacy,” filmmaker Stephen Kijak (COM’91) emphasizes regarding Rock Hudson. “He was a massively important figure in film culture whose fate ran headlong into the world health crisis of modern times.”
Bostonia: The film adopts a somber tone when it addresses Hudson’s AIDS diagnosis in 1984 and its public revelation in 1985. How did this disclosure impact public perception of AIDS?
Stephen Kijak: It’s hard to convey the magnitude of that moment for those who didn’t live through it. Rock Hudson was the first globally recognized figure to die from AIDS, and his announcement simultaneously revealed his homosexuality. It became a worldwide news sensation, forcing mainstream society to confront the AIDS crisis. This led to shifts in public policy and fundraising, marking a crucial turning point, albeit at the very beginning of the crisis. He put a recognizable and beloved face to the disease.
Bostonia: What do you hope viewers will take away from Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed?
Stephen Kijak: I hope viewers will recognize Rock’s dual legacy – his significant contribution to cinema and his role in the AIDS crisis. He was a pivotal figure in film history whose life intersected tragically with a global health emergency. It’s essential to view these narratives through a queer lens, reclaiming and celebrating these stories.
Bostonia: How has Hollywood evolved for gay actors since Hudson’s time, and where does it remain unchanged?
Stephen Kijak: While progress has been made, with increased representation and less stigma for openly gay actors, some prejudices persist. There’s still a hesitance to cast openly queer actors in leading heterosexual romantic roles. And, unfortunately, some individuals at the highest echelons of Hollywood remain closeted.
Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed is available for streaming on MAX and HBO platforms. You can watch the film’s trailer here.
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