Movie Review: “Foxcatcher” (2014)
This is a thrilling, slow-burn portrait of the American Dream. It showcases that with enough work and desire anyone can achieve their goals. What is amazing about the film is the juxtaposition of the two leads. First, we see someone who comes from little and has worked hard to achieve success. But also, we see how someone born into money and wealth can influence and triumph. Based on a true story, “Foxcatcher” is expertly crafted with chilling results.
In the beginning, Mark Schultz, excellently played by Channing Tatum, is addressing an auditorium of uninterested young kids about what it takes to be an Olympic champion with a gold medal wrapped around his neck. After the assembly, he collects $20. The absurdity is deliberate. How does one continue on after achieving a major goal? This pressure to stay relevant and succeed bleeds through the film.
“Foxcatcher” is a film where subtext speaks volumes. When Mark is training with his brother, Dave, equally wonderful portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, the relationship becomes very transparent. A few minutes of seeing the brothers wrestle captures what long, tedious backstory would cheapen. The nature of their characters are defined through their actions. Passion exudes in every frame.
What is incredible about Mark and Dave is that they are the most winning American brothers in the not just wrestling but of all sports history. They’ve both won collegiate, national, world and Olympic titles. They grew up with really only the support of each other. It wasn’t until the presence of John du Pont that the brothers separated.
As the transformative John “Golden Eagle” Du Pont, Steve Carell has never been better. He has shown that he can excel putting out dramatic work, but this performance is a step up. Within this complex role, there are some shades of Michael Scott. One cringe-worthy example is when his mother is watching a practice session. But there are also some terrifying moments that echo Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates. One of my favorite scenes from Carell involves a tank.
Tatum, as a co-lead with Carell, and Ruffalo’s supporting work here are top notch, as well. Much credit must be given to director Bennett Miller, who was awarded with the Best Director prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. He has such great relationship with his actors that he is able to bring out their best performance. Coincidentally, his first three narrative features have been based on true stories. The previous two were heavily lauded by critics and awarded with Academy nominations. Certainly, “Foxcatcher” will follow in that same path.
A Sony Pictures Classics film released in LA and NYC on November 14th.
Overall: “Foxcatcher” is a gem in this year’s sea of cinema treasure. I’ve caught the fox twice.
My rating: 9.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
Directed by: Bennett Miller
Starring: Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller, Vanessa Redgrave and Anthony Michael Hall
Rated R for some drug use and a scene of violence
Trailer:
