FOXCATCHER (2014)

Sports-themed films aren't often my thing, but with this cast alone - though knowing little about the subject - I was eager to give the Oscar-nominated Foxcatcher a try.  The brothers Schultz - Dave (Mark Ruffalo) and Mark (Channing Tatum) - are Olympic gold-winning wrestling champions when Mark is "discovered" by millionaire John du Pont (an unrecognizable Steve Carell), who wants to move Mark to his estate and help him form a winning team for the upcoming 1988 Olympics.  Though du Pont wants both brothers, Dave is settled into life as husband and father, so this becomes Mark's chance to step out from under his older brother's shadow and prove himself.  Dazzled by the eccentric du Pont's wealth and seeming faith in him, Mark is determined to be the best, but as the trials get closer and du Pont's erratic behavior gets worse, the brothers find themselves on a dark path that leads to unexpected results.  Arguably Tatum's best work, with Ruffalo and especially Carell Oscar-worthy in this "based on a true story" drama the grabs you about thirty minutes in and doesn't let go. (rated R)  A-

FOXCATCHER trailer