Black Bear

R

Released Dec 4, 2020

1h 44m

Drama

List

89%

162 Reviews

Tomatometer

65%

500+ Ratings

Audience Score

A filmmaker plays a calculated game of desire and jealousy in pursuit of a work of art that blurs the boundaries between autobiography and invention.

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Critics Consensus

A fascinating look at the creative intricacies of show business, Black Bear is a provocative, mind-bending experience -- and finds Aubrey Plaza at the top of her game.

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Sal D

One of those films you pretend to like to seem like you have taste, but really you hate it because it's boring and pretentious.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

02/09/24

Full Review

David C

I have watched this film a number of times, and it still captivates me. The narrative structure is brilliant with a quick shift before the halfway mark. The main characters build and bristle at the perfect moments. Aubrey Plaza is amazing with her sardonic style, of course, but so are Christopher Abbott and Sarah Gadon with their angst and realism. The supporting cast provides some relief while keeping the momentum. The writer and director, Lawrence Michael Levine, has created a wrenching, emotional, and darkly comic masterpiece.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

12/27/23

Full Review

Steve D

As with most her films I like the star far more than the material.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

11/11/23

Full Review

Kyle M

The first viewing unexpectedly switches narratives and enable a study-wise retrospective onto a second viewing optionally rewatches the equally provocative first half bridging flipped similarities regarding the human relations during show business with grasped tactics and ultimately refining Audrey Plaza's spirited conviction at her peak. (B)

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

10/15/23

Full Review

Mary Ann F

This film is a complete knockout. Outstanding performances (Plaza is top notch, as usual), a refreshing and unusual script, and great cinematography make for a completely engaging film experience. And no, you don't have to be a filmmaker to appreciate it. There are more than a few dismissive audience reviews that seem annoyed that this is a film about filmmaking. It's certainly possible for me to enjoy a sports drama without being a linebacker myself. Don't have to be a teacher or student to enjoy a film about education. Don't have to be sick to appreciate a film about illness. It was an incredibly engaging film that had me glued every step of the way. Bravo to all for this one. Thank you for taking such chances.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

09/11/23

Full Review

J R

Filmmakers need to disclose when they are only making a movie for other filmmakers. Over the top artsy nonsense with no intellectual stimulation unless you are an indie director.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

09/09/23

Full Review

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Lawrence Michael Levine

Director

Aubrey Plaza

Allison

Christopher Abbott

Gabe

Sarah Gadon

Blair

Lindsay Burdge

Maude

Alexander Koch

Mike

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Jake Wilson

The Age (Australia)

Even if you spot the final twist coming a mile off, there are a few mysteries left to ponder -- and on the other hand, there can be little doubt that Plaza's performance is a tour de force.

Rated: 3.5/5

Jul 16, 2021

Full Review

Katherine McLaughlin

Sight & Sound

Aubrey Plaza is an unpredictable powerhouse in writer-director Lawrence Michael Levine's two-part negotiation of the untrustworthy power dynamics of a filmmaking couple.

May 11, 2021

Full Review

Simran Hans

Observer (UK)

Levine's playful deconstruction of tortured genius is a witty and provocative send-up of tyrannical directors, diva-ish actors and over-invested voyeurs alike.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 25, 2021

Full Review

Ben Flanagan

Vague Visages

Black Bear does, after all, stink of men writing women as cute dolls to be played with. It’s the sardonic, versatile Plaza performance that saves Levine’s Black Bear.

Feb 6, 2024

Full Review

Alessandra Rangel

InSession Film

Black Bear is an enveloping experience that shines because of the shameless commitment of its stars and the privileged view it provides on the abusive bond between artists. Just do not try to find an answer to everything you see on screen.

Rated: B

Mar 20, 2023

Full Review

Dallas King

Flick Feast

Black Bear is a fascinating study of the subjectivity of art and a fantastic showcase for a trio of actors working at the top of their game.

Rated: 4/5

Nov 12, 2022

Full Review

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Synopsis

A filmmaker plays a calculated game of desire and jealousy in pursuit of a work of art that blurs the boundaries between autobiography and invention.

Director: Lawrence Michael Levine
Producer: Andrew Chang-Sang, John Hills, William G. Santor
Screenwriter: Lawrence Michael Levine
Distributor: Momentum Pictures
Production Co: Oakhurst Entertainment, Tandem Pictures, Blue Creek Pictures, Productivity Media
Rating: R (Sexual Content|Language Throughout|Drug Use|Some Nudity)
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 4, 2020, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Dec 4, 2020
Runtime: 1h 44m

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