Cocaine Bear takes you on an uproarious journey reminiscent of films like Snakes on a Plane, giving nostalgic vibes and fueling the imagination with wild events too absurd to deem even partially true. This film, crafted under the direction of Elizabeth Banks and a witty script by Jimmy Warden [Borderline and The Babysitter], hits theaters with a buzz of excitement, driven by its captivating title and a trailer that promises non-stop entertainment. For those seeking a rollicking good time, Cocaine Bear delivers in spades, offering an experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear and shaking your head in disbelief.
Drawing inspiration from an astonishing real-life event involving a black bear that ingested a substantial amount of cocaine and met an untimely end, Banks weaves an imaginative tale that explores the zany consequences of a massive, coke-enhanced bear’s rampage through the lush landscapes of Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest. The film effortlessly channels the vibe of the mid-’80s, paying homage to both the spirit of adventure and the gritty allure of slasher films of the era.
As the story unfolds, a diverse cast of characters embarks on a hunt for scattered duffel bags filled with powder, each with their own quirks and motivations. From the mismatched buddy drug dealers Eddie and Daveed, played by Alden Ehrenreich and O’Shea Jackson Jr., respectively, to the stoic police detective portrayed by Isiah Whitlock Jr., every actor brings their A-game, infusing the film with humor and heart. Park ranger [Margo Martindale] and wildlife specialist [Jesse Tyler Ferguson] heighten the mood, while the most notable is Ray Liotta [Goodfellas], as bad guy/drug smuggler Syd, in his final role.
Keri Russell [The Americans, Felicity] stands out as Sari – a mom on a mission when her daughter Dee Dee [Brooklynn Prince] and her friend Henry [Christian Convery] become unwitting targets caught in the middle of Pablo Eskobear’s drug-crazed rampage.
One of the movie’s highlights is the remarkably lifelike portrayal of the titular bear, a stunning blend of motion capture and cutting-edge CGI. Cokey the Bear’s exhilarating attacks are both hair-raising and, surprisingly, laugh-out-loud hilarious. The film strikes a delicate balance between uproarious comedy and heart-pounding suspense, leaving you simultaneously chuckling and holding your breath.
As the bear wreaks havoc, you’ll find yourself surprisingly cheering her on, captivated by her sheer delight as she indulges in her newfound cocaine cravings. With creative ingenuity, the bear’s interactions with the illicit substance are both clever and amusing, showcasing her exuberance in the most unexpected ways.
Mark Mothersbaugh’s score seamlessly integrates period-specific music, while the costumes and production design allow audiences to get lost in this wild story. Cocaine Bear brilliantly captures the essence of the ’80s without veering into parody territory. The film’s meticulously crafted details, from the posters adorning a teenager’s walls to heart-pounding sequences, create a nostalgic atmosphere that envelops the movie-goers in pure cinematic joy.
In a climactic blend of humor and tension, Cocaine Bear emerges as an unforgettable adventure that leaves you yearning for more. With its entertaining storyline, standout performances, and jaw-dropping visuals, this film solidifies itself as a must-watch, proving that sometimes, the most eccentric concepts can result in the most exhilarating cinematic experiences. Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of laughs, thrills, and nostalgia – Cocaine Bear delivers it all and then some. The film is in theaters now.
