COCAINE BEAR | MOVIE REVIEW | SYLVIA PARK

Cocaine Bear just as the title suggests is a comedy/horror film of exactly that – a bear on cocaine. As crazy as that seems it is based (loosely) on a true story but in real life the bear didn’t go on a drug fuelled killing rampage. This B grade movie is a fowl mouthed, laugh out loud, gruesome thrill ride that could just become one of those iconic must watch movies, right up there with Snakes on a Plane and Sharknado.

Hannah Hoekstra as Elsa in Cocaine Bear, directed by Elizabeth Banks.

Set in the mid 80’s a plane loaded with bricks of cocaine crashes in the mountains and the high times begin. In the mountains that day is an eclectic mix of characters including a park ranger, a wildlife specialist, a bunch of drongo teenagers (2 of which have wagged school), a single mum looking for her kids along with the drug dealers looking for their lost haul. All their lives are about to intertwine on a gnarly adventure as they come face to face with the violent drugged up bear. A blood bath ensues, which isn’t always the fault of the bear but due to the stupidity of the characters.

Cocaine Bear, directed by Elizabeth Banks.

The bear is extremely realistic thanks to the CGI technology of NZ’s own Weta FX. This just adds to the realism of the bear attacks, but it also makes you fall in love with her as she tears into brick after brick of cocaine. The scene of the bear chasing the ambulance to Depeche Mode’s “Just can’t get enough” is a standout as is the numerous one liners and jump scares.

Cocaine bear for a fun time is not to be sniffed at and will have you snorting with laughter, screaming, and squirming in your seat.  Due to the drug use, violence, and language it is rated R16.

Keri Russell as Sari in Cocaine Bear, directed by Elizabeth Banks.

Check times & dates for Hoyts HERE, then head to Sylvia Park for a delightfully funny movie to go with your popcorn.