Sweeping, lively, and packed with insight, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed offers an intimate look at one of film history’s most magnetic stars. Mining the riches of Hudson’s storied career, director Stephen Kijak (Sid & Judy, Frameline43) deftly marries archival footage to a rich spread of interviews, reaching for the heart of its bygone gay star. While the film does investigate the wavering gap between Hudson as both person and persona, a life in the closet makes for just one piece of Kijak’s portrait. Detailing Hudson’s life from his origins to his queer friendships, his resonance with audiences, to his taste for decor, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed is a satisfying and thorough catalogue of Hudson’s life and work.

Gilded with appearances from James Dean, Doris Day, and Jane Wyman, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed offers backstage looks at tabloid coverage and studio negotiations, even touching on Hudson’s brief clashes with the FBI. Meditating always on stardom’s joys and drawbacks, this robust look at Hudson’s life never makes it feel anything but full.