What do you get when you put Jack Black and Shirley MacLaine in a comedy based on a murder that actually happened? One weird-ass film that delights and shocks. The most brilliant aspect of this documentary is that it combines the “movie”’ about Bernie and Marjorie’s lives and real interviews done with real people who knew the pair. It is done is such a way, though, that you think the interviewees are actors. Absolutely brilliant!

In a nutshell

Bernie was born to be a funeral director. In fact, he was seen as a bit of a legend. He is also sweet, friendly and single. Most town folk assume he is gay. His career puts him in touch with recently widowed older women, whom he spoils and treats. Then the grumpiest (and extremely rich) widow in town – yes, Shirley MacLaine – appears to soften towards Bernie. Things get creepy and strange from there.

Mood of the film

Wonderfully weird.

Best performances

Jack Black is astonishing as the effeminate, goodie-two-shoes, but slightly creepy Bernie Tiede. If you are a fan as I am, this is probably his best role to date. Matthew McConaughey shines as per usual (as he did, for example in Magic Mike). Shirley’s role is too small for her to really have fun with it.

Standout scene

Every scene with Jack Black!

Negatives

I do think Bernie’s character is ever so slightly one-sided. Yes, you need to portray him in a certain light for the finale to be so powerful. Perhaps there could have been more subtle references to his dark side.

Is it relevant today?

The film sheds light on the circumstances that drives a seemingly sweet human being to commit a horrible crime.

Does it cop out?

Hmm, no.

FYI

The Hawthorn Funeral Home in Carthage, Texas, where Bernie and Marjorie met, would not allow the filmmakers to use the real name of the home in the film.

Rotten Tomatoes Score

92%

My score

90%