Foxcatcher (2014) Review

Foxcatcher (2014) Sony Pictures

 There is a book written by Jon Ronson called, The Psychopath Test. It covers how many big companies put people in power that are psychopathic according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). This film represents an example of the subject matter of that book.

Mark Schultz and his brother David have taken the sport of wrestling to its pinnacle, The Olympic Games. They both have earned gold medals and continue to coach and compete in their beloved sport but there seems to be issues among the brothers about one living under the other's shadow.

Enter Jon Eluthére du Pont, millionaire philanthropist and wrestling enthusiast and his new hobby, coaching athletes. The film covers a journey among the Schultz brothers and du Pont in an invisible struggle for power that becomes deadly. Wrestlers most likely will know the outcome of this true story and the performances of Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo as the Schultz brothers is believable and heartwarming.

Steve Carrell plays du Pont and takes a break from being comedic to a chilling portrayal of a man spoiled by his own good fortune and how he reacts to not getting what he wants. The film is directed by Bennet Miller and the way it was shot is beautifully done. The shots of Foxcatcher Farm and the du pont estate in particular are worth a look if you have not seen the film. It's rated 'R' for violence and scenes of drug abuse.