“Cocaine Bear,” a comedy horror film released in 2023, offers a unique and peculiar storyline based on a true event that unfolded in rural Georgia in 1985. The film follows the adventures of a group of eccentric characters who are inexplicably drawn to the corpse of a black bear that died from cocaine poisoning after consuming a duffel bag filled with the drug. Directed by Elizabeth Banks and written by Jimmy Warden, “Cocaine Bear” showcases an ensemble cast that includes Keri Russell, Paul Walter Hauser, Alden Ehrenreich, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Isaiah Whitlock Jr., and Ray Liotta.
The plot of the film revolves around the aftermath of the bear’s tragic demise. Keri Russell portrays Marsha, a park ranger tasked with investigating the mysterious death. Paul Walter Hauser plays Teddy, a small-time drug dealer determined to locate the missing cocaine. Alden Ehrenreich brings to life the character of Wildlife Officer Jeffrey, an ambitious young man seeking to make a name for himself. O’Shea Jackson Jr. embodies Larry, a poacher who covets the bear’s body for its valuable pelt. Isaiah Whitlock Jr. portrays Sheriff Haskell, the local law enforcement officer attempting to maintain order. Ray Liotta takes on the role of Doug, a drug kingpin desperately searching for the lost cocaine.
Elizabeth Banks, known for her work on acclaimed films like “Pitch Perfect” and “The Hunger Games,” skillfully directs “Cocaine Bear,” navigating the delicate balance between comedy and horror. The film’s offbeat and unconventional nature is sure to resonate with fans of the genre, offering a fresh and audacious perspective.
Upon its release on February 24, 2023, “Cocaine Bear” garnered worldwide attention, grossing an impressive $89.3 million against a production budget of $20 million. The film’s financial success speaks to its appeal and ability to captivate audiences.
Critics, however, have had mixed reactions to “Cocaine Bear.” Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a rating of 50%, based on 100 reviews, with an average score of 5.5/10. The site’s critical consensus states, “Cocaine Bear is a bizarre and offbeat comedy that will likely appeal to fans of the genre, but its uneven tone and lack of focus may leave others cold.” Metacritic assigns the film a score of 54 out of 100, indicating “mixed or average reviews” based on 27 reviews.
“Cocaine Bear” offers a peculiar and boundary-pushing cinematic experience. The film’s odd blend of comedy and horror may not be universally appreciated, as its uneven tone and lack of focus may deter some viewers. Nevertheless, for fans of the comedy horror genre seeking a unique and offbeat cinematic experience, “Cocaine Bear” is a worthwhile watch. It showcases stellar performances and the directorial finesse of Elizabeth Banks, making it an intriguing addition to the genre.
