Friday Film Noir

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Bernie (2011) is a dark comedy directed by Richard Linklater and written by Skip Hollandsworth and Linklater, based on a true story. The film follows assistant funeral director Bernie Tiede (Jack Black) as he forms a strained relationship with wealthy widow Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLaine). After Bernie commits a shocking crime, the small Texas town responds with sympathy and absurdity, blending narrative with real interview-style commentary.

The film is based on Skip Hollandsworth’s article “Midnight in the Garden of East Texas,” incorporating real interviews and quotes from townspeople. Jack Black visited Tiede in prison to capture his mannerisms, while Shirley MacLaine used town accounts to portray Marjorie Nugent. Local non-actors were cast in interview segments, creating a hybrid documentary style. The film brought new legal scrutiny to Bernie Tiede’s case, leading to his temporary release and a high-profile resentencing trial.

2011 • PG-13 • 1h 39m
Rotten Tomatoes: 88%
Holy Unknown Grade: A-
Worldwide Gross: 10M
Where To Watch

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