point and beyond. Allison is sarcastic, evasive
and quippy and finds herself allying with Gabe
much to the distress of the much more direct
and sincere Blair. Gabe is a very particular kind
of millennial male whose artistic temperament,
dismissive intellect and sensitive posturing make
for a toxic combination — a theme which carries
over into the second part of the film to explosive
results. It’s cringey and enthralling as the three
dig themselves into deeper and deeper holes
and you begin to wish for any kind of release.
Perhaps that’s part of the reason why “Black
Bear” cuts to black and restarts with a different
premise but similar themes. Gadon and Abbott
are darkly excellent as they playfully skewer the
worst kind of egos in their industry. And it’s here
where Plaza, as actor Allison, gets some real
showstopper moments within the stereotypical
construct of a desperately insecure, jealous
and dangerously method female lead. It’s
reminiscent of and probably inspired by Gena
Rowlands and puts Plaza in a different class.
The film itself might not wrap up in any sort
of tidy or satisfying way, but nothing leading
up to the conclusion would lead you to expect
something so basic.
“Black Bear,” a Momentum Pictures release, is
rated R by the Motion Picture Association of
America for “for language throughout, sexual
content, drug use and some nudity.” Running
time: 104 minutes. Three stars out of four.
MPAA Definition of R: Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying
parent or adult guardian.