Bernie (2012) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Bernie (2012), directed by Richard Linklater, is a darkly comedic drama based on true events. The film stars Jack Black as Bernie Tiede, a charming and enigmatic mortician, and Shirley MacLaine as Marjorie Nugent, a wealthy and unpleasant widow. With a script co-written by Linklater and Skip Hollandsworth, who also authored the original Texas Monthly article the film is based on, Bernie offers a unique blend of humor, drama, and true crime. Here’s an in-depth review of the film and where you can watch it online.
Plot Overview
Bernie tells the story of Bernie Tiede (Jack Black), a beloved local mortician in a small Texas town who becomes close friends with Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLaine), a wealthy but disliked widow. Bernie’s kindness and charm endear him to the community, but his relationship with Marjorie takes a dark turn. When Marjorie’s abusive behavior and demands escalate, Bernie makes a fateful decision that leads to a murder investigation. The film explores the complexities of Bernie’s character, the reactions of the townspeople, and the legal ramifications of his actions.
Characters and Performances
- Jack Black as Bernie Tiede: Black delivers a standout performance as Bernie, blending charm with underlying menace. His portrayal captures Bernie’s complex personality and the moral ambiguity of his actions.
- Shirley MacLaine as Marjorie Nugent: MacLaine’s performance as Marjorie provides a compelling contrast to Black’s Bernie. Her portrayal of the unpleasant widow adds depth to the film’s exploration of power dynamics and human behavior.
- Matthew McConaughey as District Attorney Danny Buck Davidson: McConaughey’s role as the local district attorney adds a layer of legal drama and provides a humorous counterpoint to the film’s darker elements.
Cinematic Style and Direction
Richard Linklater’s direction of Bernie creates a distinctive and engaging narrative style that blends dark humor with dramatic elements. The film’s use of interviews with real-life townspeople and a mix of documentary-style footage and dramatization enhances the story’s authenticity. Linklater’s pacing and tone balance the film’s comedic and tragic aspects, creating a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Music and Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack features a selection of country and gospel music that complements the film’s Texas setting and adds to its quirky and authentic atmosphere. The music helps establish the film’s tone and enhances the storytelling.
Where to Watch Online
If you’re interested in watching Bernie, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Bernie is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. If you have a subscription, you can watch it as part of their library.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase Bernie on Amazon Prime Video, offering flexibility for streaming or owning a digital copy.
- iTunes: The film is available for rental or purchase on iTunes, making it accessible for Apple device users who prefer to watch it on their preferred platform.
- Google Play Movies: Bernie is available for rental and purchase on Google Play Movies, providing an option for Android users or those who prefer Google’s platform.
- Vudu: Vudu offers Bernie for both rental and purchase, giving you flexibility in how you choose to watch the film.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase through YouTube Movies, this platform provides a convenient way to access the film digitally.
Conclusion
Bernie (2012) is a captivating and darkly comedic film that offers a unique exploration of true crime through the lens of Richard Linklater’s distinctive storytelling. With strong performances from Jack Black and Shirley MacLaine, and a narrative that blends humor with drama, the film provides an engaging and thought-provoking experience. Its availability on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, along with rental and purchase options on iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, ensures that you can easily access and enjoy this intriguing film.
Whether you’re interested in true crime, dark comedy, or simply looking for a film with strong performances and a compelling story, Bernie offers a memorable and entertaining viewing experience.
