Does Jack Black look like a murderer in this poster for Bernie?

Last Updated on August 5, 2021

Millennium Entertainment has just released a poster for BERNIE, the next film from Richard Linklater (SCHOOL OF ROCK, DAZED AND CONFUSED) about the insane-yet-true events of Bernie Tiede, a man convicted of swindling a woman of her money by systematically estranging her from her friends and family… before murdering her once she put him in her will. 

Perfect topic for a comedy, am I right?

The official synopsis-

In the tiny, rural town of Carthage, TX, assistant funeral director Bernie Tiede was one of the town’s most beloved residents. He taught Sunday school, sang in the church choir and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Everyone loved and appreciated Bernie, so it came as no surprise when he befriended Marjorie Nugent, an affluent widow who was as well known for her sour attitude as her fortune. Bernie frequently traveled with Marjorie and even managed her banking affairs. Marjorie quickly became fully dependant on Bernie and his generosity and Bernie struggled to meet her increasing demands. Bernie continued to handle her affairs, and the townspeople went months without seeing Marjorie. The people of Carthage were shocked when it was reported that Marjorie Nugent had been dead for some time, and Bernie Tiede was being charged with the murder.

Jack Black plays Bernie Tiede, Shirley MacLaine plays Mrs. Nugent, and Matthew McConaughey plays the town’s blustery real-life District Attorney, Danny Buck Davidson.

I really like Linklater’s films, the cast seems great and I have a really dark sense of humor, but it feels a little weird to use a real-life tragedy as the basis for a comedy. But hey, if it’s good I’ll shut my mouth.

Millennium Entertainment will release BERNIE on April 27th, 2012, but it will premiere at SXSW on Wednesday, March 14th.