Bernie

Bernie Review: Humorous, heart-breaking, and repentant

Brighton Nelson

18 Mar 2026 — 4 min read

There's way too much going on here that it's so bad yet so good at the same time.

In honor of my good friend Hyatt Watson, who recommended this film, I decided to write this review. While I typically review only new films to keep my finger on the ever-evolving world of cinema and stay relevant, it's always good to have just enough downtime to review some classics. With my friend's glowing recommendation and a fantastic premise, does this film live up to my excitement? That's what I'll be tackling in today's review. Thanks for joining me today, and I hope you enjoy this article!

The best-worst-and-everything-in-between movie poster of all time.

As usual, I'll start with the negative. My main issue with the film is that the ending feels a little hollow and rushed, and the post-credits bio feels the same. With such a phenomenal buildup, it just felt rather weak compared to the rest of the film. Other than that, though, I've only got great things to say about this film!

First off, Jack Black's performance as Bernie is absolutely perfect. He plays someone who made a terrible choice yet is still good and worth forgiving. He also does a phenomenal job singing in this film. I didn't expect this film to be so unabashedly Christian and to feature so much gospel music, but I loved it! As somebody who lived in Texas for a few months last year, the gospel singing absolutely helped the setting come to life, and it really threw me back to mis hermanitos y los gringos in Eagle Pass.

This guy is so hilarious. His comments about Bernie's sexuality are hilarious, though probably wouldn't fly too well in today's cinema landscape haha.

Speaking of Texas, the witty dialogue of its side characters is a major reason this film is so entertaining. Each character really captures the vibe of the time and the place with levity and hilarity that perfectly execute the mockumentary style. While not always laugh-out-loud funny, it was amusing in a unique way. It was almost better. These characters and community, along with Jack Black's performance, bring Bernie to life as such a uniquely lovable character.

And, of course, the story is super interesting, especially since it's true. The truth is always stranger than fiction, as people say (or, even better, as Mr. Ballen says). I don't want to spoil too much. Even if it's on the back of the DVD cover, it's better to go into this one blind. However, just know it's a great story of forgiveness and a look into how humanity uniquely perceives justice.

Sure, the film romanticizes the story and makes Bernie seem better than he is in real-life, but I personally find that makes it far better as a movie, if worse as a biography.

The Reel Ranker Verdict

Reel or Unreel? - Reel
The Reel Ranker Score: 76%
Letter Score: A-
Star Ranking: 4 out of 5

Bernie has a wonderful premise and phenomenal performances from everybody involved! The script is so humorous and witty, the story is heartbreaking and justifiable, and, all along, it offers a great look into the power of forgiveness and the necessity of justice.

Interested in checking out some other of my more classic movie reviews from different decades? Check them out below!