Who Directed Cocaine Bear
Cocaine Bear is a 2023 American comedy horror film directed by Elizabeth Banks and written by Jimmy Warden. The film is loosely inspired by the true story of the “Cocaine Bear”, an American black bear that ingested several kilograms of lost cocaine. Elizabeth Banks takes the directorial helm for this thrilling movie, bringing her unique vision to the story. Jimmy Warden penned the script for Cocaine Bear, creating a captivating narrative that combines comedy and horror elements.
Cast and Production Details
The star-studded cast of Cocaine Bear brings their talent and charisma to this thrilling film. Keri Russell, known for her role in the hit TV series “The Americans,” takes on a new challenge as she dives into the world of comedy horror. O’Shea Jackson Jr., son of legendary rapper Ice Cube, showcases his acting skills alongside Russell, delivering a standout performance. Young talent Christian Convery and seasoned actor Alden Ehrenreich also join the ensemble, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles.
Supporting the lead cast are Brooklynn Prince, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Margo Martindale, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Ray Liotta, each lending their unique talents to enhance the film’s captivating narrative. Elizabeth Banks not only directs Cocaine Bear but also serves as a producer, bringing her creative vision to every aspect of the production.
The filming of Cocaine Bear took place primarily in the picturesque County Wicklow, Ireland. From August to October 2021, the stunning landscapes of this Irish county provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s thrilling story. With its lush greenery and rugged terrains, County Wicklow adds an atmospheric element to the film, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
With a budget of $30-35 million, the production spared no expense in bringing the story of Cocaine Bear to life. A significant portion of the budget was allocated to the creation of the CGI bear, ensuring the creature’s realistic appearance and seamless integration into the film. The combined efforts of the talented cast and crew, along with the breathtaking filming locations and meticulous production design, make Cocaine Bear a highly anticipated movie that promises to entertain and captivate audiences.
Real-Life Inspiration
The premise of Cocaine Bear is loosely inspired by a real-life incident that took place in 1985. It revolves around the strange and tragic story of Andrew C. Thornton II, a former narcotics officer turned drug smuggler. On that fateful day, Thornton was flying over the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia when his plan to drop 175 pounds of cocaine went horribly awry.
In a twist of fate, the dropped packages landed in the forest instead of their intended recipient. One of the unsuspecting recipients of this unexpected “gift” was an American black bear. Unbeknownst to the bear, the contents of the packages were several kilograms of pure cocaine, a powerful and dangerous stimulant.
The bear’s consumption of the cocaine had disastrous consequences. As the illicit substance coursed through its system, the bear became highly aggressive and unpredictable. Tragically, this led to fatal attacks on humans who crossed its path. The bear’s rampage and the aftermath of this bizarre incident left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it and inspired the unconventional narrative of Cocaine Bear.
