Bernie

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  • Opened April 27, 2012 
  • 1 hr 44 min
  • PG-13 | Some Violent Images and Brief Strong Language
  • Parents: Common Sense Media says OK for kids 14+. More on child suitability

  • In the tiny, rural town of Carthage, TX, assistant funeral director Bernie Tiede was one of the town’s most beloved residents. He taught Sunday school, sang in the church choir and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Everyone loved and appreciated Bernie, so it came as no surprise when he befriended Marjorie Nugent, an affluent widow who was as well known for her sour attitude as her fortune. Bernie frequently traveled with Marjorie and even managed her banking affairs. Marjorie quickly became fully dependant on Bernie and his generosity and Bernie struggled to meet her increasing demands. Bernie continued to handle her affairs, and the townspeople went months without seeing Marjorie. The people of Carthage were shocked when it was reported that Marjorie Nugent had been dead for some time, and Bernie Tiede was being charged with the murder. Full synopsis

  • Cast: Jack Black, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey, Brady Coleman, Richard Robichaux
  • Director: Richard Linklater
  • Genres: Comedy

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Fans say Go
689 fans
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Critics say Go
75 out of 100
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Fan Reviews

Must Go!
Bernie

by fostersplace

LOVED THIS MOVIE!!!! Local and famous actors were all excellent and true to East Texas ways. Writing, directing, cinematography -- all wonderful and hope it gets some awards. Only wished I'd...

Must Go!
Jack Black at His Best!

by gothame

Brilliant and fast paced, this film is witty, at turns dark, at others uproariously funny and deeply poignant. The cast delivers performances that are uniformly outstanding. Based on a true story,...

Must Go!
The New Jack Black

by BonVie

I almost passed on this movie because typically Jack Black movies are not even in my 'to rent' category (Nacho Libre, anyone?). Who knew Jack Black could actually act AND sing? His acting was...

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Critic Reviews

100
San Francisco Chronicle
| Mick LaSalle

You should have the opportunity to experience the movie the way I did, in complete ignorance, enjoying its every weird turn. Read full review

88
Philadelphia Inquirer
| Steven Rea

Weirdly funny, inspiring film. Read full review

85
NPR
| Jeannette Catsoulis

The wonder of Black's performance here is its empathy and balance: inasmuch as he can disappear into any role, he dissolves into this one with no hint of mocking remove. It's a beautiful thing to see. Read full review

75
Rolling Stone
| Peter Travers

No use trying to describe Bernie. It's a one-of-a-kind inspiration. You will never feel closer to a convicted killer. Read full review

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Photos

Brady Coleman as Scrappy Holmes and Jack Black as Bernie Tiede in "Bernie."