Review: Black Bear

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Writer/actress Allison (Aubrey Plaza) is in need of some inspiration and retreats to a secluded mountain cabin with a friend of a friend, Gabe (Christopher Abbott) and his wife Blair. (Sarah Gadon) What starts as an awkward meeting turns into full on jealously when the lines begin to blur.

I've heard nothing but good things about Aubrey Plaza's performance in this, but I had never watched a trailer and all the reviews I read were spoiler free. The quick synopsis on IMDb doesn't really do this justice either. I was surprised to see the turn it took.

I won't give spoilers either, but Black Bear in a way is two versions of the same movie. It takes a very meta approach that is pretty interesting, though I did prefer the first half of the movie to the second.

Plaza is as wonderful as everyone says. This is easily her best performance. Gadon and Abbott were also very good in their roles. I think the film goes a bit too hard into showing us that they're having problems, but they handle it all well.

You can rent this film on VOD. I did for $5.00 through Prime, and it's worth the small cost. This is a film I wish I could've gone to my favorite indie theater to see. 

Recommended: Yes

Grade: B

Memorable Quote: "You're alienating our guest." - Blair (Sarah Gadon)


Comments

  1. thevoid99March 24, 2021 at 3:54 PM

    I keep forgetting about this film as I've heard good things about it as I'm also a fan of both Aubrey Plaza and Sarah Gadon.

    ReplyDelete
  2. RuthMarch 24, 2021 at 10:29 PM

    I enjoy seeing Aubrey Plaza in interviews but somehow haven't seen too many of her movies. This one sounds bonkers but I like her and Christopher Abbott so I should give it a shot.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamMarch 25, 2021 at 6:12 AM

      I think she's been typecast for a very long time so it's nice to see her take roles like this and Ingrid Goes West and finally break out of it.

      Delete

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