I am endlessly obsessed with puzzle-box narratives within films. Not "mystery" movies, per se, but films that use the very design of the narrative itself to challenge the viewer. "Black Bear" is the ultimate in such filmmaking.
For a very basic overview, "Black Bear" sees struggling actress Allison (Aubrey Plaza) embark on a sort of airbnb retreat with couple Gabe (Christopher Abbott) and Blair (Sarah Gadon). One night, the wine gets flowing and the tongues start wagging, and events spiral out of control. Right at the climax, however...the scene completely changes. This time, Plaza's character is the drunken, unreliable actress wife of film director "Abbott", who may or may not be having an affair with Gadon's character. Which narrative is reality and which is the story? That is for the viewer to parse out for him/herself.
If the above paragraph sounds a bit confusing, I can't really blame you for thinking that. It sort of has to be seen to allow some measure of comprehension. But basically, director/writer Lawrence Michael Levine sets up two narratives featuring the same trio of actors in slightly different roles. Presumably, one is reality and one is fiction, but few outright answers are given on which is which.
The unique frame narratives are clearly the draw here, but any narrative is only as good as the performers that give it life, and that's another area where "Black Bear" is spectacular. Plaza, Abbott, and Gadon are absolutely perfect in each of their dual roles. Even during the times when you might be a little confused (and trust me, that'll happen here from time to time!), the superb chemistry keeps everything on the screen riveting.
One thing I will readily admit about "Black Bear" is that it is made for a certain type of viewer. One, like myself, who enjoys the scope and uniqueness of the screenplay just as much as the literal plot/dialogue. I wouldn't necessarily call this a "metaphor film", but rather one that discards a straightforward narrative and instead plays around with alternate storytelling styles. If that's your thing, "Black Bear" will almost certainly stand out as one of the best films you'll see in 2020. My closest comp is 2013's "Enemy" for uniqueness of narrative supported by strong acting.
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