Foxcatcher (2014)

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.