Foxcatcher

FOXCATCHER (2014)

directed by Bennett Miller

[director filmography: Moneyball (2011), Capote (2005)]

written by E. Max Frye [Mini-series Band of Brothers (2001)], Dan Futterman [Capote (2005)]

starring Steve Carell [Anchorman movies, TV series The Office, Little Miss Sunshine (2006)--yea, that Steve Carell], Channing Tatum [21 Jump Street movies, White House Down (2013), Magic Mike (2012)], Mark Ruffalo [The Avengers (2012), Shutter Island (2010), The Kids Are All Right (2010), Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)]

ENJOYMENT: **** (out of 5)

"Excellent film"

I was not sure really what Foxcatcher was about going into it, and I believe that added a little to the experience. Therefore, I will keep this short. I did know that it was about a rich guy [Steve Carell] who took an interest in a wrestler [Channing Tatum] and that this rich fella was somehow involved in the wrestler's training. I also knew that this was Steve Carell's first dramatic performance and I was honestly confused as hell why he was even casted. Nonetheless, I did soon learn why Carell was given this role, and I do think it was an excellent decision. Foxcatcher was an excellent film with impeccable acting, directing and writing. Though I was expecting a great film, it still threw me off guard. Foxcatcher contains subtle humor at times as well as some very disturbing bits as well, almost feeling at times like Fargo. All in all, this was an unexpected great film and is the third success by director Bennett Miller.

OSCAR PREDICTIONS: Foxcatcher will get a nomination for Best Original Screenplay, Steve Carell will be nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role and Mark Ruffalo will be nominated for Best Supporting Actor. It won't win anything.

Other ratings: IMDB (7.6/10), Rotten Tomatoes (86%)