From the very beginning of the movie, I realized this is so much more than just a movie about a bear on cocaine. As I watched, I realized I underestimated the quality and plot of the movie and was completely in shock at how good it was. I spent the movie either shocked, excited, or scared, never once losing interest.

Cocaine Bear is a thrilling adventure movie that delves into an infamous drug bust from the early 80s. This film tells the true story of a black bear that accidentally consumed a large amount of cocaine and went on a wild rampage in the woods and a plot that will leave you at the edge of your seat. The movie is directed by Elizabeth Banks and stars Keri Russell, Ray Liotta, and Alden Ehrenreich.

This movie is truly fantastic. It accomplishes so many things that one would think it would be difficult for one film to do them all. It is both hilarious, frightening, and captivating while keeping you in the dark about what will happen next.

Despite the unusual premise of the title “Cocaine Bear”, this movie is both hilarious, scary, and endearing. That is one of its defining characteristics that sets it apart. At its core, this movie is about redemption and second chances. The bear’s journey is not only a wild adventure but sets other characters on a journey of self-discovery. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of conveying the message that it is never too late to turn your life around. 

The characters Daveed and Eddie embody this message. They are two drug traffickers who work for Eddie’s father Syd, to illustrate the redemption trope. When Syd dispatched Daveed to gather Eddie to do a task and pick up the cocaine from the forest, Eddie had a loss in his life and was grieving. Eddie didn’t want to be involved, but he ended up being forced to by Daveed. As Eddie and Daveed were closest friends, it was evident throughout the entire film that Eddie wanted nothing more to do with this life. Nonetheless, he attempts to persuade Daveed otherwise. Daveed resisted up to the point where kids were involved with the bear and everything, when he stood up against his boss and for his morals and set on a path for a new life. This shows in an amazing way how a bad person can become better.

The performances are top-notch. Keri Russell is Sari, searches for her daughter Dee Dee and her friend Henry who skipped school to paint waterfalls in the forest. The Goodfellas actor, Ray Liotta is fantastic in the role of the drug dealer who is responsible for the bear’s accidental ingestion of cocaine. Alden Ehrenreich, best known for his role in “Solo: A Star Wars Story”, is also excellent at playing a young man who gets caught up in the chaos caused by the bear. The main actors do an incredible job of portraying the seriousness, and fear of being chased by a bear all while the supporting cast provides excellent comedic relief. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, and the result is a movie that is amazing that must be seen by everyone.

Despite how authentic-looking he appears to be, the bear in the film was entirely created with computer graphics, which was incredibly stunning. CGI and real-world effects are used to bring the bear to life, and the result is a bear that can alternately be adorable and terrifying. The actors and filmmakers did an outstanding job of bringing this bear to life, even the viewers could feel sympathy for it.

Not only are the special effects fantastic, but the soundtrack is also deserving of praise. This movie’s music was expertly composed by Mark Motherbaugh, the Thor: Ragnarok soundtrack composer, and it wonderfully reflects the tone, sentiment, and emotions of each moment throughout the film.

The cinematography, like all the other elements that comprise a movie, is generally brilliant. They show gorgeous images of the Appalachian Mountains, which serve as the scene’s backdrop, and it is just stunning. Filmed in Kentucky, it has gorgeous scenery from rolling hills to lush woodlands. Because of the distinctively styled visual approach that keeps viewers in and keeps them captivated, this movie expertly captures Kentucky’s natural magnificence while keeping an emotionally engaging tale. Not only is the countryside lovely, but the movie’s images are as well. Even in its most gory parts, the live-action and animation combination provides a lively and vivid appearance that is visually attractive.

As attractive the visuals may be, for some the gory parts can be a little too much. They show many injuries such as a shot head, intestines being eaten, and a cut-off leg, so beware. 

Overall, Cocaine Bear is a must-see movie that is entertaining and thought-provoking. The stunning cinematography, impressive special effects, and top-notch performances make this a movie that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the audience. The heartwarming message of redemption and second chances is something everyone can relate to, and the result is a movie that is both inspiring and uplifting. If you are looking for a wild ride with a heartwarming message, then Cocaine Bear is the movie for you. Don’t miss it!