IMDb rating: 7/10
I've been catching up on my Oscar nominees lately (The Intimidation Game, The Theory of
Everything, Birdman, American Sniper, The Judge) but I haven't had the time
or energy to write reviews for any of them. But I decided I wanted to write at
least one review for a movie that’s in the Oscar race, especially since I
haven’t written in a while. So hear it is: my review for Foxcatcher.
First I must comment on the most interesting of casting
choices. I think I can say with confidence that this is the first major film
role for Steve Carell that isn't a comedy or dramedy. It seems that when
comedic actors step into these types of roles, however, it can sometimes create
a chilling effect, which might be what the director had intended.
Wrestling is such a weird sport. No offense to those of you
who participate in it, but I can’t say that I enjoyed two hours of men rubbing
and groping each other. It’s just not my thing. This was a well-performed,
well-directed film, though, and I’m glad I watched it, but I can’t really say I
overly enjoyed it. It was very awkward and bizarre, but I suppose that’s part
of the appeal. There was a darkness hanging over the entire plot, and I knew that
it ended in some kind of “tragedy,” which it kept me in suspense wondering what
it would be.
One last thing: I don’t know if it was intentional or not,
but when du Pont is leaving Dave’s hotel room and Mark tries to go with him, du
Pont tells him, “No, Mark. Stay.” I couldn’t help being reminded of a dog
obeying its master. That is kind of the relationship I saw between du Pont and
Mark, and it was definitely unhealthy.
Kudos to Steve Carell, and Channing Tatum as well, for
breaking out of their usual roles and taking on a fascinating project that they
and Mark Ruffalo all put a lot of work into. I’m not sure if this film will win
any Oscars or not, but it was definitely interesting to watch.
