The Santa Barbara International Film Festival named
The Bennett Miller-directed film is based on the true story of an heir to the chemical company fortune, his sponsorship of the U.S. Olympic wrestling program and his relationship with gold medal-winning brothers Mark and Dave Schultz.
The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May, generating buzz and establishing itself as an early player in the fall awards season.
"Carell's complete embodiment of the reclusive millionaire, a somber, twisted and morally ambiguous individual, is a testament to his versatility as a comedic and dramatic actor," the Santa Barbara International Film Festival said in a statement.
Carell made his film debut in 1991 in "Curly Sue" and went on to star in films such as "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," "Little Miss Sunshine" and
Some previous recipients of the Santa Barbara award include
The 30th annual festival runs from Jan. 27 to Feb. 7. Carell will be presented the award on Feb. 6.
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