“Dallas Buyers Club” stars Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto mindful of AIDS crisis in reaction to Oscar nods

Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto didn’t miss their opportunity this time.

After their Golden Globe wins last Sunday, they became the target of critics who felt the two Dallas Buyers Club stars had blew an opportunity to say something meaningful about the AIDS crisis during which their film is set.

But their statements today after being nominated for Academy Awards are more thoughtful of mindful of the film’s subject matter.

‘Today you not only honor me but also all those around the world living with AIDS and all those we have lost to this disease,’ Leto said. ‘Thank you for recognizing them and recognizing their struggle through Dallas Buyers Club.’

The film takes you back to the mid-80s when so little was being done for AIDS sufferers and drugs such as AZT were being approved at far too slow a rate.

McConaughey was nominated for best actor for his performance as real-life Texas cowboy Ron Woodroof, whose free-wheeling life was overturned in 1985 when he was diagnosed as HIV-positive and given 30 days to live.

‘I am honored and grateful for this nomination,’ McConaughey stated. ‘I love working in an industry and craft that inspires me daily and allows me to tell stories that translate humanities and move people. I share this with the entire Dallas Buyers Club family of filmmakers, cast, and crew — and the real-life Ron Woodroofs and Rayons (Leto’s character) who continue to fight and live with dignity. Thank you.”

Woodroof, who was straight and homophobic at the start, tracked down alternative treatments from all over the world by means both legal and illegal to try and extend his life – and to make some money along the way.

He bypassed the establishment and joined forces with an unlikely band of renegades and outcasts to establish a hugely successful ‘buyers’ club’ that made alternative treatments available to fellow AIDS sufferers.

Woodroof’s unlikely business alliance and bond with a transsexual woman named Rayon (Leto) humanizes him in the film and makes him far less of a homophobe.

Leto is unrecognizable in most scenes after losing approximately 40 pounds for the role of an AIDS patient and drug addict who is dying but retains a charm and grace until the end.

Leto said in a statement released by Focus Features: ‘I am absolutely blown away by this incredible nomination. I never in my life thought I would have the opportunity to even write these words.’

‘This was a fascinating story told by a group of incredibly passionate and committed filmmakers who wanted to create something special and shine a light on a unique and important story,’ he added. ‘I’m proud to be a part of this celebration.’

The film earned six Oscar nominations in all including Best Picture, original screenplay, editing and makeup & hairstyling.