Cocaine Bear, directed by Elizabeth Banks, is a dark comedy thriller that takes a bizarre true story and amplifies it into a wildly entertaining cinematic experience. Loosely based on a 1985 incident where a black bear ingested a significant amount of cocaine dropped from a drug smuggler's plane, the film transforms this peculiar event into a narrative filled with chaos, humor, and unexpected depth.
Plot Overview
Set in the mid-1980s, the film begins with a drug smuggler's ill-fated attempt to dispose of a large shipment of cocaine over a Georgia forest. The contraband lands in the Chattahoochee National Forest, where a 500-pound black bear consumes a substantial amount of it. The bear's ensuing rampage sets off a chain of events that entangles an eclectic group of characters, including local law enforcement, tourists, criminals, and teenagers. As they converge in the forest, each with their own agendas, they must navigate the perilous situation brought about by the coked-up apex predator.
Performance Highlights
The ensemble cast delivers performances that balance the film's comedic and thrilling elements. Keri Russell portrays Sari, a concerned mother searching for her missing daughter in the forest, bringing both determination and vulnerability to the role. Alden Ehrenreich and O'Shea Jackson Jr. play Eddie and Daveed, two hapless criminals tasked with retrieving the lost cocaine, whose camaraderie and comedic timing add levity to the narrative. The late Ray Liotta, in one of his final roles, embodies Syd, a ruthless drug kingpin, delivering a performance that is both menacing and darkly humorous.
Direction and Cinematography
Elizabeth Banks' direction embraces the film's absurd premise, crafting a tone that oscillates between horror and comedy without losing coherence. She skillfully orchestrates scenes of tension and gore, juxtaposed with moments of slapstick humor, creating a dynamic viewing experience. Cinematographer John Guleserian captures the lush, serene beauty of the forest, which starkly contrasts with the ensuing mayhem, enhancing the film's visual appeal.
Themes and Analysis
Beyond its outrageous plot, Cocaine Bear explores themes of human folly and the unpredictability of nature. The film satirizes the consequences of human greed and incompetence, as the characters' misguided decisions lead them into the bear's deadly path. Additionally, it serves as a commentary on the intrusion of human activities into natural habitats, with the bear's rampage symbolizing nature's unpredictable response to such disruptions.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Cocaine Bear received a mix of reviews, with some critics praising its audacity and entertainment value, while others critiqued its tonal inconsistencies. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a score of 64%, indicating generally favorable reviews.
Rotten Tomatoes
Critics lauded the film's commitment to its absurd premise and the performances of its cast. Empire Online described it as "a wickedly enjoyable thrill ride," noting its effective blend of horror and humor.
The Verge
Conclusion
Cocaine Bear is a film that thrives on its absurdity, delivering a unique blend of horror and comedy that keeps audiences engaged. Its willingness to embrace the ridiculousness of its premise, combined with strong performances and adept direction, makes it a memorable addition to the genre. For viewers seeking a film that offers both thrills and laughs, Cocaine Bear provides a wild ride that is as entertaining as it is unconventional.
 Movie Review: A Wildly Entertaining Ride Through Absurdity){kind=link}