Bernie
Millennium Entertainment | Release Date: April 27, 2012
7.2
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 166 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
122
Mixed:
33
Negative:
11
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6
imthenoobAug 29, 2012
It was a pretty solid move that is helped greatly by the wonderful performance by Jack Black. The biggest problem I had was that there was really very little of the actual plot. The film largely oonsisted of numerous actors/actressesIt was a pretty solid move that is helped greatly by the wonderful performance by Jack Black. The biggest problem I had was that there was really very little of the actual plot. The film largely oonsisted of numerous actors/actresses discussing things that Bernie does and what he is like, what his relationship is like with the female lead. That was a little disapointing because Black's performance was so good that it really should have been expanded on and he should have had more dialogue and better interaction with the female lead as well.

Overall, It was a solid movie. A decently made film that is worth checking out.… Expand
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
EFYevanMay 21, 2012
Fantastic movie - I highly recommend you see this movie. Jack Black is a great actor - he plays the true story of Bernie perfectly! He is a wonderful singer, and he sings throughout the movie. I am really glad I went to see this movie.
5 of 7 users found this helpful52
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7
FDT44Apr 27, 2012
Director/writer Richard Linklater ("Slacker," and "Dazed and Confused") just has a knack for making "funny" out of sheer quirkiness; "Bernie" is no exception. However, such an amalgam, in this instance, wears a conspicuous switchblade on theDirector/writer Richard Linklater ("Slacker," and "Dazed and Confused") just has a knack for making "funny" out of sheer quirkiness; "Bernie" is no exception. However, such an amalgam, in this instance, wears a conspicuous switchblade on the sleeve of its seemingly unimpeachable, happy-go-lucky, awe-shucks suit--comely yet fey--which makes the audience's support of its protagonist, notwithstanding the solemnly predetermined circumstances and resolution, all the more substantial; one can't help but feel his internal struggle to restrain himself from the impending provocation, and revert to a suit unsheathed from trepidation and worry. Hence, "Bernie" is as much a "based-on-a-true-crime-story" as it is an emotional exercise in one coming to grips with the life they "needed" to have, but weren't "ready" to try. As for the movie itself, a plot too unconventional to be anything other than...well...true, it is about real-life character and mortician, Bernie Tiede, (Jack Black) who moves to the small cornpone town of Cathage in East Texas, where he immediately becomes the figure of social graces, exuding an ironic level of comfort from residents dealing with the loss of a loved one; the town knows Bernie will be there to commiserate with, and more notoriously, a solid deal on their deceased one' s terrestrial humble abode. Needless to say, Bernie is a town favorite--respected, idolized, and considered valuable to the communal whole. Though, Bernie is something of a bachelor as well. With his high social status, and flintlike sense of self-worth from being of consequential usefulness by endless scores of people, Bernie decides it's time to enter into a relationship that is more quid pro quo--but is he ever wrong. He begins meeting/dating Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLaine), a sour-mouthed widow of cold embraces, who also happens to be the town's most affluent member. After runs of extravagance vacationing, and copious amounts of arguing, the film follows with Bernie on trial. It is from this point, that the offbeat, dark dramedy really picks up, as Linklater's atypical movie becomes even more peculiar, albeit rewarding, assuming the form of a semi-mockumentary that includes interviews from actual local witnesses with a loose script who know the couple, as well as professional actors who "claimed" they knew the couple. Either way, it is know one else but the mere townspeople that are the most fascinating,--outright, vivid, profane, hilarious, and insightful--connecting audiences with a sense of realism that is as effective and contributing to the film's plot, as astonishing it is just to take in. So, is Jack Black not good as Bernie Tiede? Absolutely, he is. Black modulates the most careful restraint he has ever produced in a film thus far. Everything from his 1990's visage--comb-over and stache and his expandable gold watch--to his persnickety stride and fluttery hands, is greatly enjoyable to observe. However, after a while, though not readily, Black's adroitness shifts to self-enchantment, though he does look as if he is having a great time on-screen. Similarly, McConaughey, playing the town's district attorney, Danny Buck, flirts with his character's limits a bit too far, which looks like a constant tomfoolery of self-parody; while charmful and expectedly charismatic, his portrayal of Danny Buck can't be taken seriously. As for MacLaine's Marjorie, she does a commendable job, as she plays the nefariously querulous widow primly, although her character is considerably less enjoyable to side with; merciless and unfunny. But, one can't discredit her work because of who she plays; her various nuances make for an oxymoronic quality that is delightful to watch (her acting job) and equally vexatious to endure. Ultimately, "Bernie" hits its highest marks when its inner-story is digressed to ephemerally comedic, straight-to-the-camera remarks made by the townsfolk, that help give the audience an internal "say" in who was actually right and who was wrong. Further, while the townsfolk, particularly the real ones, do show bias in their "opinions' regarding the matter, their comments help steer audiences in the right direction to deduce the situation's happenings. Although everyone seems to have an opinion, one of the film's underlying issues is that its director/writer, Linklater, too, doesn't know, and Black's Bernie is just as clueless. That is, the townsfolk are the only sources of knowing...at all; this then, adds to the degree and weight of their words. What emanates in "Bernie," is an almost elegiac meditation, with some atypical laughs, of an underrated hero who just happened to meet the wrong person and the wrong place, without him every knowing such could ever happen. Black's Bernie, is a slowly-winding arrow that surges ahead much farther than aimed.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
cabritaAug 15, 2012
It is a film that works so well in so many areas it is outstanding. It works as a documentry, comedy, drama and comment of life in texas. Jack Black delivers a subtle funny and dramatic performance. It is a stunning achievement
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
Jman4May 25, 2012
"Bernie" is a laugh-out-loud black comedy based on a true story that's stranger than fiction. Jack Black deserves a Best Actor nomination for his portrayal of Bernie Tiede, an overly benevolent Christian philanthropist. His speech, mannerisms"Bernie" is a laugh-out-loud black comedy based on a true story that's stranger than fiction. Jack Black deserves a Best Actor nomination for his portrayal of Bernie Tiede, an overly benevolent Christian philanthropist. His speech, mannerisms and lines are perfectly delivered and fit excellently, which can be credited in part to the superb writing and fantastic co-starts. The ridiculousness of the story, the fact that most of it is true, and the incredible quality of the acting, writing and directing make this film the best I have seen all year. A must-see flick that is enjoyable in every aspect.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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6
JamesLMay 29, 2012
This film was not dark enough for me. I found it biased toward the Bernie character as it skirted the issue of homosexuality and I did not believe at all his excuse for killing the 81 year old woman. The movie would have been more appealingThis film was not dark enough for me. I found it biased toward the Bernie character as it skirted the issue of homosexuality and I did not believe at all his excuse for killing the 81 year old woman. The movie would have been more appealing if it had been slightly more detailed and graphic. I wanted to know more about the relationship not just skimming the surface. I did enjoy the approach of using the town people to tell the story but that make it more of a light comedy not a dark comedy. Still, it intrigued me enough to go home and search the internet for information on the murder. I side with the district attorney that Bernie is not such a harmless guy. Original but it could have been so much better.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
BikerjamesMay 13, 2012
Jack Black was born to play Bernie Tiede, the town Funeral Director in Carthage, Texas. He plays the guy who comes to town and steals all the old ladies hearts to perfection. He sings pretty good also which he showcases many timesJack Black was born to play Bernie Tiede, the town Funeral Director in Carthage, Texas. He plays the guy who comes to town and steals all the old ladies hearts to perfection. He sings pretty good also which he showcases many times throughout the film. He befriends the town's most hated woman (played deliciously by Shirley MacClaine), then she takes complete control over him causing him to, well, you have to see it for yourself. I haven't attended a film where the entire audience was involved and laughing like this in a long time. Most of the theater clapped at the end and stayed for the entire end of the credits. The interviews with all the town's inhabitants are hilarious. Matthew McConaughey hams it up as the local D.A. I really enjoyed this quirky, campy film.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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9
MyffubsJun 4, 2012
Jack Black deserves an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Bernie Tiede, a small town funeral director who murdered his close elderly friend Marjorie Nugent. The film observes the odd relationship that builds between the two. Bernie is aJack Black deserves an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Bernie Tiede, a small town funeral director who murdered his close elderly friend Marjorie Nugent. The film observes the odd relationship that builds between the two. Bernie is a well-liked and respected figure in Carthage, Texas. He's cheerful and kind, and seems to brighten everyone's day. As a part of his job he comforts widows in their times of grief and keeps in touch with them over the following months. This is how he meets Marjorie (Shirley McLaine), recent widow and local curmudgeon. She shows distaste for just about everyone, whose feelings are perhaps mutual. Bernie however wins her favor with genuine sweetness. The two grow close, much to others' befuddlement. The film utilizes a mockumentary approach surrounding this central narrative; the locals (who may or may not be actual Carthage residents) offer gossip and opinions on what occurred between Bernie and Marjorie. This approach works well, providing audiences with numerous authentic slices of life. Director Richard Linklater keeps the humor gentle, even when ranging into darker territory, while the dramatic counterpoints prove oddly touching. Though the performances highlight the film, the underlying tenderness is what drives it home. Unlike most recent comedies, this one contains a beating heart.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
JTKelleyAug 10, 2012
Jack Balck does a great job in an understated role that deserves awards-season attention, as the humor here is simple and derived from the characters in this hilarious, top-notch dark comedy.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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1
Bigboii32Aug 23, 2012
This is the worst and most boring movie I have ever seen. I would rather eat curry and watch desperate housewives for eight hours then sit through jack blacks worst movie he's ever created. No comedy at all and it sukz ballz!!!!!!!!!!! bALLZ!!
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
ArnoldC41May 25, 2012
Bizarre, dramatic, hilarious and just overall great. All the actors, especially Jack Black, are unbelievably good. Definitely see this - you will not regret it.
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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10
BHBarryMay 19, 2012
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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1
Ireland914Sep 4, 2012
Very boring movie. Some amusing scenes but overall, very slow-paced and uninteresting. Jack Black does do a great job portraying a character out of his usual routine but the movie offers very little to hold your attention and keep from dozing off.
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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8
TVJerryAug 20, 2012
This delightful film by Richard Linklater has been under the radar and it's a shame, because it's a hoot. It's a reality-based tale about a prissy assistant funeral director (Jack Black), who befriends a rich, mean old widow (ShirleyThis delightful film by Richard Linklater has been under the radar and it's a shame, because it's a hoot. It's a reality-based tale about a prissy assistant funeral director (Jack Black), who befriends a rich, mean old widow (Shirley Maclaine) and ends up killing her. The tale is told with some dialogue and lots of hilarious interviews with local residents (some of whom are real and some are actors). I'm not a Black fan, but there's none of his over-the-top antics in this quiet portrayal. Matthew McConaughey shows up in a non-glamourous role as the prosecutor. I doubt it'll be in town long because it's available on DVD 9/21/12, but it's lots of fun on any format. Stay thru the credits for additional soundbites.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
DMuhnyNov 18, 2012
Long and boring. It was hard to get through the whole thing really. A few scattered funny parts, but not worth my time. .
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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9
mschoaJun 14, 2012
Great true story, played well by the main characters (Jack Black and Shirley McLaine). The profiles of the characters would make a good study paper for psychology students.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
GreatMartinJun 5, 2012
Never say never is the old cry and I remember, after seeing â
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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9
jellopappaMay 29, 2012
As a convicted human being for life and an escaped Texan, this film told it all. It captured a big slice of small town life - its prejudices, its judgments, its characters. brilliant.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
libbycritiquesAug 11, 2012
I am not usually a big fan of Black
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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5
BradySmithMay 10, 2013
Way overrated. There are a couple of amusing moments, but it's just pointless overall. It' drags the least important scenes on forever. Jack Black is the movie's anchor and is funnier in the role than anyone else could probably be but theWay overrated. There are a couple of amusing moments, but it's just pointless overall. It' drags the least important scenes on forever. Jack Black is the movie's anchor and is funnier in the role than anyone else could probably be but the movie surrounding him is just so... boring. It could have been hilarious, but is far from it. Not recommended.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
KivaJun 25, 2013
This film came as a surprise to me. A disappointing surprise. First of all the film is not a comedy and i expected much more for the director of School of Rock. The film is based on true events but the movie is still bad. I saw the goodThis film came as a surprise to me. A disappointing surprise. First of all the film is not a comedy and i expected much more for the director of School of Rock. The film is based on true events but the movie is still bad. I saw the good reviews and I thought that it would be funny as hell as Jack Black was on the cast. Jack Black impressed me with his magnificent performance. That's the best thing on that film ,despite the fact I watched that movie in order to laugh.This is certainly on of the worst films of 2012 and it looked more like a documentary or a reality -tv show. It did not seem like a movie. Thumbs up ONLY for Jack Black. 4/10 for that reason because only his performance is extraordinary.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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0
AliStarkOct 12, 2013
that is one of the worst movies of all time. It was more of a documentary than a comedy movie. How can anyone call it a comedy movie?? There is no comedy element in this movie. I think critics of this movie are just as retarded as the makersthat is one of the worst movies of all time. It was more of a documentary than a comedy movie. How can anyone call it a comedy movie?? There is no comedy element in this movie. I think critics of this movie are just as retarded as the makers of the movie. Bad bad movie. It sucks.… Expand
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
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7
MarcDoyleApr 30, 2012
If you're in the right mood, you'll laugh your ass off in this movie. I was in the right mood. The constant cut-aways from the action to interview the townsfolk really make the film. Brilliant casting. Black is great, as usual, but it'sIf you're in the right mood, you'll laugh your ass off in this movie. I was in the right mood. The constant cut-aways from the action to interview the townsfolk really make the film. Brilliant casting. Black is great, as usual, but it's the people of this little Texas town that make it a film to remember.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
LynDec 30, 2012
I guess Jack Black is going to be ignored at awards time in favor of guys like Afleck. But Black's performance here is amazing -- funny, sad, musical, bizarre, and he's playing a real person you get a glimpse of at the end of the film! TheI guess Jack Black is going to be ignored at awards time in favor of guys like Afleck. But Black's performance here is amazing -- funny, sad, musical, bizarre, and he's playing a real person you get a glimpse of at the end of the film! The quasi-documentary approach here works well and is really enjoyable.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
TheQuietGamerFeb 18, 2015
A black comedy that is both surprisingly funny and charming. At times it is even heart-warming. It's almost baffling to even consider the movie being this enjoyable when it's plot is based on true events. However it is. Defying the darknessA black comedy that is both surprisingly funny and charming. At times it is even heart-warming. It's almost baffling to even consider the movie being this enjoyable when it's plot is based on true events. However it is. Defying the darkness of the events it's based on and becoming a darkly funny, a great murder story, and smart satire.

The key to the movies success outside of smart direction is a stand out performance by Jack Black. Not only does he play his character fascinatingly, with odd little quirks and a complex personality, but also so lifelike. Black makes his interpretation of the individual come to life.

The same can be said for the entire cast. Their characters might be goofy, but they aren't absurd. It's not hard to see that they are playing characters who are real life people.

The actual case is likely to be the most divisive aspect of the movie. Does the movie perhaps portray Bernie in a more favorable light do to bias? I really can't say. The fact that the movie is based on a true story (not entirely sure on how accurate) it puts the film in some murky territory. Yes the character is presented as likable, but murder is murder right?

Whether or not aspects of the case were changed to make Bernie more appealing I honestly do not know. However even if they were it doesn't change the enjoyment I had with this movie. It's a brilliantly funny black comedy with a standout, excellent performance from Jack Black. One I highly recommend viewing.

I give the movie a 9.1/10.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
drlowdonAug 15, 2014
Based loosely on a true story 'Bernie' is the story of Bernie Tiede, a much loved mortician (sorry, funeral director) in a small Texan town.

Made in an almost documentary like fashion with constant cutaways to the townsfolk, who are moreBased loosely on a true story 'Bernie' is the story of Bernie Tiede, a much loved mortician (sorry, funeral director) in a small Texan town.

Made in an almost documentary like fashion with constant cutaways to the townsfolk, who are more than happy to share their thoughts 'Bernie', while not exactly laugh out loud funny, retains a dark sense of humour throughout. The entire cast does a good job with an, unusually restrained, Jack Black in particular putting in a great performance.

Subsequent reading has lead me to question just how accurate a portrayal of events this is but it is a good watch nonetheless.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
DukeJonMar 11, 2013
I didn't know the story, and was surprised by the twist. An enjoyable and understated film full of great characters. Jack Black gives a superlative performance.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
tallmanwritingNov 12, 2012
Who knew that Jack Black had that in him!? Playing the title character, Black is like nothing you've ever seen from him before. He's pitch perfect, as is -- and I can't believe I'm saying this -- Matthew McCan'tact. Just stunning performancesWho knew that Jack Black had that in him!? Playing the title character, Black is like nothing you've ever seen from him before. He's pitch perfect, as is -- and I can't believe I'm saying this -- Matthew McCan'tact. Just stunning performances by these men. I highly recommend this movie. If you like any of Christopher Guest's best work, I think you'll dig Bernie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
AlvaradoKTAJun 29, 2013
This film stars J.Black, which is enough for me to watch any film, and I honestly think its his best performance to date. I first watched this movie on Netflix without much knowledge of its plot. This allowed me to truly enjoy the film,This film stars J.Black, which is enough for me to watch any film, and I honestly think its his best performance to date. I first watched this movie on Netflix without much knowledge of its plot. This allowed me to truly enjoy the film, without any expectations.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
Critic2012Dec 23, 2012
It's a sort of dark comedy with American realism and touching emotion thrown into the mix.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
everlastallSep 26, 2015
I didn't find it all that funny, but I did find it charming, interesting and enjoyable. Jack Black gives a great performance and the movie just seems to flow whimsically in easy digestion even through its dark parts due to the documentaryI didn't find it all that funny, but I did find it charming, interesting and enjoyable. Jack Black gives a great performance and the movie just seems to flow whimsically in easy digestion even through its dark parts due to the documentary style that surprisingly works quite well.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
beingryanjudeSep 1, 2014
Jack Black's performance as Bernie makes us not only disregard his murder but feel inspired. Bernie is a unique piece of filmmaking that earns the rare achievement of being a successful black comedy.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
TheDRauchAug 28, 2012
Jack Black really transforms into the title character in 'Bernie', a darkly comic crime film by Richard Linklater that is his best film since 'Before Sunset'. Black is so admirably subtle and controlled in his performance that I wish he hadJack Black really transforms into the title character in 'Bernie', a darkly comic crime film by Richard Linklater that is his best film since 'Before Sunset'. Black is so admirably subtle and controlled in his performance that I wish he had dived into dramatic territory sooner. As far as supporting roles go, I am not usually a fan of Matthew McConaughey, but he won me over in what is probably his best performance to date as well and Shirley Maclaine is typically great as the cold-hearted **** of Carthage. Also, the semi-scripted roles of the townspeople playing themselves are very funny. Linklater so easily empathises us with Bernie that we begin to side with the townsfolk too and when the ending comes about, there is some melancholy to be felt. The shot near the end where the real-life Bernie meets with Jack Black to talk is also nicely affecting and Black's portrayal of him is by far the performance of the year so far for me. Great movie.… Expand
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8
moonman1994Aug 4, 2015
A very solid film with good performances from the cast. The style was also quite impressive because of the way that the entire film was formatted like a TV documentary.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
SpangleMar 18, 2014
It is amazing that this was a true story. Richard Linklater managed to sprinkle in some hilarious moments along with telling the true story of Bernie Tiede and how he murdered Marjorie Nugent. It does a great job presenting the moral conflictIt is amazing that this was a true story. Richard Linklater managed to sprinkle in some hilarious moments along with telling the true story of Bernie Tiede and how he murdered Marjorie Nugent. It does a great job presenting the moral conflict of this story and, well, I do not want to say too much. Jack Black did a phenomenal job in the lead role. I was incredibly impressed with his performance. I really enjoyed Shirley MacLaine's performance, but I have a soft spot for Matthew McConaughey. He really portrayed the hard nosed Texan District Attorney really well. At the end of the day, this one really reminded me of Gone Baby Gone but funny. The conflict is different, but it leaves you feeling the same way. Another touch that I enjoyed from this one was the documentary-esque way of telling the story. With all the interviews from locals about everybody, it was a nice addition that really re-enforced that this one was a real story.

I do not really have any complaints that I can think of, but something was missing. It was definitely enjoyable and a good movie, but not really great in any area. Would definitely recommend.… Expand
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8
SeriosityOct 8, 2012
Endlessly entertaining, it is hard not to love every single minute of this exceptional blend of semi-documentary style, dark comedy and tragic real-life events. Jack Black turns in probably his greatest performance, but the film reallyEndlessly entertaining, it is hard not to love every single minute of this exceptional blend of semi-documentary style, dark comedy and tragic real-life events. Jack Black turns in probably his greatest performance, but the film really benefits from the citizens of Carthage,some of them played by real townspeople, who give hilarious insight into Bernie and his story.… Expand
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8
worleyjamersJan 14, 2013
A really great little film. Jack Black is terrific; it's for sure the best performance of his career, but i don't think I was surprised by how great he truly was in this. He's one of the most underrated actors out there and this performanceA really great little film. Jack Black is terrific; it's for sure the best performance of his career, but i don't think I was surprised by how great he truly was in this. He's one of the most underrated actors out there and this performance really shows that. It sort of reminded me of Phillip Seymour Hoffman in Capote. McConaughey's win streak continues...he's really been on fire the past few years. Good script, great movie!… Expand
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8
FranzHcriticJun 14, 2014
It's a calm, slow paced comedy, that has its bluntness and absurdity to thank for, otherwise it would be a ridiculous thriller. Black's subdued performance as the Tiede in an emotional roller coaster is far beyond what I thought his potentialIt's a calm, slow paced comedy, that has its bluntness and absurdity to thank for, otherwise it would be a ridiculous thriller. Black's subdued performance as the Tiede in an emotional roller coaster is far beyond what I thought his potential was. McConaughey and McClaine both work with comedic supporting roles. All the laughs in this film comes from the fact that this is a true story, which you'd never believe.… Expand
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8
MovieGuysSep 24, 2013
Bernie is a quirky, weird, off-kilter move with an overall sweetness. Jack Black plays Bernie up so that he is a very likable character, even for what goes on about halfway through the film. Linklater has created a sort of weird, cinematicBernie is a quirky, weird, off-kilter move with an overall sweetness. Jack Black plays Bernie up so that he is a very likable character, even for what goes on about halfway through the film. Linklater has created a sort of weird, cinematic fantasy that is very rare in film. I can't quite explain it.… Expand
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8
UrracoJan 12, 2014
It's a good movie, but I can't for the life of me tell you why. Both the story and the production seem a little indecisive about how exactly they want to develop. There aren't any of the stereotypical cues that tell us when the film wants toIt's a good movie, but I can't for the life of me tell you why. Both the story and the production seem a little indecisive about how exactly they want to develop. There aren't any of the stereotypical cues that tell us when the film wants to be funny and when it's meant to be dark, but maybe that's the point. It's charming, overall, and Jack Black is surprisingly smooth in a fairly serious role that plays brilliantly off of Shirley McLaine's performance. Give it a shot - you probably won't love it, but it's too charming to hate.… Expand
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6
poewilsonFeb 6, 2014
Bernie is a film that lives and dies on Jack Black's blade. Those who want Black to be no more than a bumbling fat man, will find no enjoyment in this film for this is Black's attempt to be a little something more and kudos on his effort itBernie is a film that lives and dies on Jack Black's blade. Those who want Black to be no more than a bumbling fat man, will find no enjoyment in this film for this is Black's attempt to be a little something more and kudos on his effort it is enjoyable to watch him. Linklater continues to push his attempts at being different and I happy to see him trying to work around the system as best he can. As for McConaughey this is the performance that brought a man's career back from the dead and it is always a pleasure to see an actor prove you wrong.
What makes the film entertaining is sadly what also hurts it cinematically and this is the interviews and cuts with the locals.
The film if one is into dark comedies should warrant an entertainment value of a 7.5, but on the Poe Scale it is a 6.5.

Acting: 1/2
Cinematography: 1/2
Editing: 1.5/2
Effects and Design 1/2
Writing: 2/2… Expand
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5
warrenworldMay 3, 2014
While Bernie's script contains some dialogue that doesn't truly fit with the pleasant scenery of Carthage, TX, the film also contains a very genuine template and very earnest acting talent that is undeniable.
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7
HeadroomAug 10, 2014
Bernie is a very funny movie if you're familiar with Texas culture. It provides some interesting social commentary with a unique twist from the documentary film-making style mixed with actor performances. I wouldn't recommend it as anBernie is a very funny movie if you're familiar with Texas culture. It provides some interesting social commentary with a unique twist from the documentary film-making style mixed with actor performances. I wouldn't recommend it as an incredible film, but it's definitely worth watching if the opportunity arises. Matthew Mcconaughey's performance was fairly dry, but Jack Black's singing was incredible.… Expand
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6
DankkuMar 16, 2017
Having seen another Jack Black and Richard Linklater film - School of Rock - that I loved so much, I had high hopes for Bernie. This one is kind of fiction and kind of talking-heads documentary, but ultimately ends up being a weird andHaving seen another Jack Black and Richard Linklater film - School of Rock - that I loved so much, I had high hopes for Bernie. This one is kind of fiction and kind of talking-heads documentary, but ultimately ends up being a weird and strange hybrid of the two. I'm still a massive fan of Jack Black, and he did a great job here, but as a whole, this based-on-true-events flick drags its feet in super heavy mud, and I found myself getting bored with an hour still left of the film. Yawn!

Watch it if you enjoy Jack Black. Avoid it if you want to see a really good film.… Expand
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9
MacsMusicJan 5, 2018
This movie is pretty much amazing in every way. Its funny, it's sad, and it's always interesting. I really like how it was made to look like a Documentary. The acting was AMAZING, from almost every actor, no matter how small the role. JackThis movie is pretty much amazing in every way. Its funny, it's sad, and it's always interesting. I really like how it was made to look like a Documentary. The acting was AMAZING, from almost every actor, no matter how small the role. Jack Black is really amazing in this movie.… Expand
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10
skobbDec 1, 2018
Loved this movie. Jack Black nailed it. Script and direction were both terrific.

Watch it on Amazon Prime.
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8
mattkerr494Jun 19, 2018
You (Weekend at Bernie's (1989)) VS the black comedy involving dead people and a mustachioed titular Bernie that they told you not to worry about.

Viewed 17/06/2018
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8
DawdlingPoetNov 22, 2021
This is a biographical comedy film, with crime elements and it includes themes such as charity and selfishness. This is quite a light hearted film, although it obviously deals with serious subjects, such as (the most obvious) death and theThis is a biographical comedy film, with crime elements and it includes themes such as charity and selfishness. This is quite a light hearted film, although it obviously deals with serious subjects, such as (the most obvious) death and the funeral business or industry. The comedy is relatively black, thus, as is fairly inevitable, its dark in tone but it features quite mild mannered characters, especially the main character of Bernie himself.

Perhaps some may feel its a little disrespectful in the way it lightly pokes fun of the industry, of people like Bernie but I didn't feel it to be an especially offensive film as such. There again, I'm somewhat open minded in terms of death, what happens (or not) and moreso the way societies deal with death culturally. Its safe to say that this film gently pokes fun at the chaotic situations families can find themselves in when having to deal with organising funerals, with Bernie hoping to be allowed to make key decisions, clearly showing his pride while demonstrating his knowledge of the funeral homes various coffins and services etc.

Cast wise, Jack Black plays the main character, Bernie. He visually appears like quite a prim and proper type, wearing a shirt and with a fairly small/thin moustache on his face - perhaps you could say he has a slight hint of Englishness on him, although I should point out that of course this is an American film. Speaking of that (no pun intended), most of the characters have fairly thick southern (think Texas dialect) American accents. I found it quite easy to follow the majority of what was said but perhaps a few people may potentially struggle a little bit with some lines of dialogue, which are a bit rushed but it shouldn't be a big issue for most people, I would certainly have thought. Of course I don't mean this in any form of xenophobic, or racist, way, as I happily admit that people with thick Scottish accents (me being Scottish myself) can be a bit difficult for people from elsewhere to fully follow - I have issues with that myself and I live here!. Anyway, I felt that Bernie, as a character, seemed more likeable perhaps in part due to his accent - im not entirely sure I can explain why but I did think that. There is an element of naivety to his character which seemed endearing.

Other characters include Marjorie Nugent (the lady who Bernie initially develops a friendship with), played by Shirley MacLaine. She also has the appearance, certainly initially, of a fairly mild mannered, while also somewhat secretive, type. I liked the scenes with both of them, they worked well together as actors in character. Matthew McConaughey plays Danny Buck, more of a macho, manly type. It was nice to see him in such a comedy film - he usually appears either in romantic comedies (which this isn't really, although it'd be easy to presume it might be but its more quirky and zany and certainly a lot more comedy based than romantic based, trust me on that) or, more recently, in dramas.

I should add that the film comes across a bit like a mockumentary, in as much as some scenes show characters talking directly to the camera, as if being interviewed for a TV show, about what happened to Bernie - his and Marjorie's relationship. You never hear from the person behind the camera, any narration is from Jack Black. As I say, this is a fairly zany film, not in a gross out comedy way or in a completely off-the-wall way but in as much as the characters had a definite eccentricity edge to them - the people featured don't appear to take things too seriously at all, aside from some of the things mentioned during the presumed interview pieces.

Content wise, the film contains the ocassional sex reference, including mention of a character potentially being gay and some violence, mostly relatively mild to moderate, nothing especially graphic, although; due to the themes, there are times where corpses are depicted. There is some strong language and there's a scene depicting a road traffic accident, with injured and dead people shown still at the scene, which could upset or frighten some. Due to this, the film has been given a 12 rating.

I felt it was quite an easy watch - it was relatively intriguing and funny at times, so it certainly wasn't bad. A part of me felt that it was perhaps a bit too middle of the road-ish but I quite enjoyed it overall. Oh and it is, apparently, based on a true story, which made it quite interesting. At the end, we're shown archive (library) stills and footage, which was also intriguing.

Yes I'd recommend this film, as I found it quite amusing at times, featuring some funny characters and it was an enjoyable easy watch. I'd recommend it on that basis.… Expand
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10
freerideartsMar 4, 2021
This is a great film. This is a great film. This is a great film. This is a great film.
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