New DVD/BluRay releases this week

There are two releases to note this week:

Foxcatcher
Directed by Bennett Miller
Screenplay by E Max Frye and Dan Futterman
Starring Steve Carell; Channing Tatum; Mark Ruffalo



Based on true events, Foxcatcher tells the story of the relationship between an eccentric multi-millionaire, John Du Pont (Carell) and two champion wrestlers Mark (Tatum) and Dave (Ruffalo) Schultz.
Well acted film with Oscar Noms for Ruffalo and Carell. Also, Tatum is really good in a very odd part.
I watched this film in the same town that this movie/incident occurred. You could feel the tension in the theatre knowing what is coming. In fact at the time this incident happened, I worked about a mile away from Foxcatcher. I remember the day clearly. Helicopters flying overhead. Police and SWAT teams closing down 252, a busy thoroughfare through the area.  So I came in approaching the movie with a lot of knowledge. I don't know if that is fair as far as reviewing the film. Usually when going to a movie I never read full reviews before going. I just take a peek at the stars that were given to the film and the trailer, I like to know as less as possible. Here...well..I could not help knowing.
The screenwriters presume a lot, however it is noted, "based" on a true story. In fact, Mark Shultz criticized the tone a bit. It does show that Du Pont was showing jealousy of the relationship between the brothers and uses that as a spark that led to the incident. I know by living in the area, Du Pont was having major issues with a local university who took his donation and then backed out of some promises according to Du Pont. This was left out of the film. What was going through Du Ponts mind at the time? We will never know. What we do know is he obviously had some mental issues, that was hidden behind the walls of Foxcatcher and also ignored because of his deep pockets.

4 out 5 stars for this tense dark film which is well acted.

Hunger Games Mocking Jay pt 1
Based on the book by Suzanne Collins
Screenplay by Peter Craig and Danny Strong
Directed by Francis Lawrence
Starring Jennifer Lawrence



Katniss Everdeen, under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her friends, fights to save Peeta and a nation who believe in her and is willing to follow her.

The acting is very good. Other then that....nothing happens. In fact the film does not have an ending. A lot of people looking scared, and talking, and arguing about what to do. And when a rescue happens...they elect to not show us?! Just an odd decision. If you have not seen this, my tip would be...watch this with/right before you see Part 2. Just a waste of time to watch by its self.

2 1/2 out of 5. Just for the fine acting.


Again thanks for your time.