Win Tickets to see Bernie

Bernie Tierde is a kind-hearted assistant funeral director who wouldn't hurt a fly. So how would he be able to murder a woman?

Greta Mayr
Published on July 30, 2012

Bernie Tierde is a kind-hearted and compassionate assistant funeral director from a small town community. He wouldn't hurt a fly, so how would he be able to murder a woman?

Everyone in the town of Carthage, Texas has a very special fondness for Bernie (Jack Black), who spends his days comforting widows, bestowing gifts and singing at services. The townsfolk are shocked, however, when Bernie strikes up an unlikely connection with the richest, meanest old widow in town, Marjorie Nugent (Shirley Maclaine). The two travel the world together, shop, and gossip, until one day Marjorie goes missing and Bernie is the prime suspect for her murder.

Based on events which really did occur about 15 years ago, much of the film is presented in documentary style, with interviews of the townsfolk and their comedic takes on the turn of events inserted into the film's narrative. Black gives an authentic performance as the complex character of Bernie, and Maclaine puts in a similarly strong showing as the impatient, overbearing old hag that everyone loves to hate.

Concrete Playground has ten double passes to giveaway to see Bernie. To go in the running, subscribe to Concrete Playground (if you haven't already) then email your name and postal address to us at [email protected]

Published on July 30, 2012 by Greta Mayr
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