In a surprising turn of events, the film "Kokainowy miś" has soared to the top of Netflix's charts in Poland, becoming the most-watched title as of April 11, 2025. Directed by Elizabeth Banks, this outrageous comedy-thriller is inspired by a bizarre true story from 1985, involving a drug smuggler, a tragic parachuting accident, and a bear that ingested a lethal amount of cocaine.
The film's premise is as wild as it sounds. It recounts the tale of Andrew Carter Thornton, a former police officer and lawyer turned drug smuggler, who died during a failed parachute jump while carrying a substantial load of cocaine. Thornton's body was discovered in Knoxville, Tennessee, with approximately 77 pounds of cocaine valued at around $14 million attached to him. His parachute malfunctioned, leading to his fatal plunge. However, the story takes an even more absurd twist when a black bear in the Chattahoochee National Forest finds one of the packages of cocaine and, tragically, consumes it, leading to its overdose.
In the film, the bear transforms into a rampaging, supercharged beast, reminiscent of a superhero from a comic book. After consuming the drugs, the bear exhibits superhuman strength and agility, terrorizing tourists and criminals alike. As Banks herself describes, "I wanted to create something that was muscular and male-dominated, a big challenge for me. The film's failure could mean the end of my career, but thankfully, it has been a hit." Despite her initial fears, "Kokainowy miś" has grossed nearly $90 million worldwide against a budget of $30 million, marking a significant financial success.
The film's reception has been mixed, garnering a 66% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics, while audience approval sits at 71%. The unique blend of black comedy and horror has resonated with viewers, making it a popular choice for weekend viewing. As of April 11, 2025, it dethroned the previous Netflix favorite, "Lista marzeń," to claim the number one spot in Poland.
Elizabeth Banks, who directed the film, has expressed her excitement about the project. In a recent interview with "Variety," she shared her journey to creating "Kokainowy miś": "I was interested in directing 'Thor: Ragnarok,' but never heard back from Marvel. So, I decided to take on a big challenge and create something of my own." Her determination to craft a unique cinematic experience has paid off, as the film's outrageous premise and humorous execution have captivated audiences.
The story of Thornton and the bear has sparked interest not only in the film but also in the real-life events that inspired it. Thornton's downfall as a smuggler is a cautionary tale of ambition gone awry. His attempts to transport cocaine from Colombia to the United States ended tragically, but the bizarre aftermath of his actions—resulting in a bear's overdose—has provided a fertile ground for creative storytelling.
In November 1985, just months after Thornton's death, a hunter discovered the remains of the bear in Chattahoochee National Forest. The bear was found near a ripped bag that originally contained about 75 pounds of cocaine, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. Authorities concluded that the bear had opened the bag and consumed the drugs, leading to its untimely demise.
Despite its gruesome premise, "Kokainowy miś" has been embraced by audiences for its over-the-top humor and thrilling sequences. The film has also sparked discussions about the bizarre intersection of drug culture and wildlife, showcasing how an unusual incident can lead to unexpected entertainment.
As the film continues to gain traction on streaming platforms, Universal Pictures has already announced plans for a sequel, with Banks expected to return as director. Fans of the original film are eager to see how the story of the infamous bear will unfold in the next installment.
In a market saturated with superhero films and serious dramas, "Kokainowy miś" stands out as a unique offering that combines absurdity with a hint of reality. The film's success demonstrates that audiences are hungry for fresh, unconventional stories that push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.
As viewers flock to Netflix to catch the latest hit, many are left wondering what other wild stories await in the world of cinema. Will "Kokainowy miś" pave the way for more bizarre adaptations of real-life events? Only time will tell, but for now, this outrageous film is capturing the imaginations of viewers across Poland and beyond.
With its blend of humor, horror, and a touch of reality, "Kokainowy miś" is not just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon that reflects the strange and often unpredictable nature of storytelling in today's entertainment landscape.
