Black Bear

I never knew Aubrey Plaza is such a good actress! The film is captivating and really showcases how good Aubrey Plaza is.

Though I have some theories as to the reason behind - or, perhaps, meaning of - its non-traditional structure, they're really not that relevant when it comes to discussing 'Black Bear (2020)'. That's because the thing is far more focused on delivering an in-the-moment emotional experience than a completely cohesive intelligent one, its mid-point shake-up seeming to exist primarily so that the writer/director can tell the story he wants to tell without being constrained by traditional narrative form. It's difficult to describe what I mean without spoiling things so I'll just leave it at that. The film itself is a beguiling and engaging drama that opens with a filmmaker coming to stay at a beautiful cabin, seemingly in the hope of finding inspiration for her newest project, and having to navigate the tense relationship of the pregnant couple who owns it. Like its protagonist, it's decidedly hard to read; almost anything could happen and it wouldn't feel out of place. This makes for a surprisingly compelling experience, though. The characters are crafted with precision, both in terms of writing and in terms of performance, and the social dynamics that the plot explores are varied, interesting and often unexpected. Sometimes, it feels a bit like a play, probably due to its small cast and near real-time unravelling. There's just something a bit claustrophobic about it all, which works in its favour as it helps to create an oddly enigmatic tone. As I've mentioned, it's hard to discuss the picture without spoiling a key aspect of it. I suppose I'll just leave it at this: it's an entertaining and unique experience that features some great performances (including perhaps Aubrey Plaza's best yet). 7/10.

Black Bear is an experimental drama that essentially offers three different scenarios. The real scenario is actually quite short and incomplete as it revolves around a female filmmaker who seeks for creative inspiration at a rural retreat. The second scenario is the first one she imagines as she invents to be welcomed as a guest in a young couple's cabin in the woods as the relationships between the three characters dramatically spiral out of control. The third and final scenario is another product of the filmmaker's imagination as she incarnates as a self-centered actress who nearly drives her colleagues insane on the last day of shooting at a rural retreat.

The first scenario is calm, introspective and short as its scenes are only briefly shown at the very beginning, between the two other scenarios and at the very end of the movie. The second scenario has a length of about forty-five minutes and can be described as a tense drama. The interactions between the three characters develop intensely and lead to an emotional finale. The third scenario also has a length of about forty-five minutes and could rather be described as a comedy or even satire. It follows an eccentric actress and her rather disorganized film crew who go through all sorts of comedic and dramatic emotions on an eventful last day of shooting. The second and the third scenario both involve the appearance of a cute female black bear at the very end, hence the title of this film.

The idea to tell three different stories in one single film is certainly quirky, entertaining and creative. Especially the unpredictable third scenario is addicting from start to finish. The natural landscapes, the cabin in the woods and the black bear are beautiful to watch. Lead actress Aubrey Plaza shines in all scenarios and shows how versatile her acting skills are.

On the other side, the three scenarios aren't properly connected. The final result is at times incohesive and uneven. The main plot is simple and thin. This movie might only be interesting for fans of experimental arthouse cinema and lead actress Aubrey Plaza.

In the end, Black Bear is an experimental arthouse film that mixes comedy and drama elements in three quirky scenarios. This movie is recommended to those who like films that walk off the beaten path while more conventional viewers might be at a loss here. Aubrey Plaza's diversified acting skills make a promising premise successful as this very good film could have been below average with a less talented actress. Give this film a try if you want to discover something unusual, fresh and exciting.

It's not a memorable movie, but it gets a clear thumbs up for two reasons.

First, it's creative. It's not your run of the mill sequel, there are no superheroes, no explosions, no bullshit. It's an awkward, trippy, but surprisingly alluring story that leaves a lot up to interpretation. That's genuinely nice for a change.

Second, the acting is legitimately good. To see actors digging deep and putting on strong, emotional performances is a puff of fresh air.

Solid film if you're up for something a little out of the left field.

This is definitely a film that leaves you with more questions than answers. There are some high points in the acting, but, in the end, there is just way too much dialogue and not enough story. That being said, the strongest part of this film is Aubrey Plaza. She is fantastic in her role as Allison and the only reason I am rating this 7/10. If you watch this film for anything, watch it for Aubrey Plaza's performance.