Disney’s contemplative and surreal show ‘The Bear’ delves into the complexities of life, mourning and the challenges of operating a high-priced eatery. Since its launch two years ago, the storyline felt too polished for mass appeal. Not everyone appreciates fine dining, leading to a similar reaction to this thought-provoking portrayal of a chef – Carmy, played by Jeremy Allen White – who goes back to his familial restaurant in Chicago post his sibling’s death.
Designed with emphasis on artistic impression rather than quick comprehendible narratives, the initial two seasons of ‘The Bear’ have set a distinctive tone that continues into the third series. The commencement of the series begins with an extended 35-minute collage that walks through Carmy’s culinary career, with Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the duo from Nine Inch Nails, providing a monotonous piano soundtrack.
Tracking time, we witness Carmy’s ordeal in a harsh New York kitchen, his learning days under distinguished chef Andrea Terry played by Olivia Colman, and his life in Chicago. It’s an unconventional, non-linear form of storytelling that may disorient viewers – clearly not everyone’s cup of tea, and seeming designed to filter the casual viewers attracted merely by ‘The Bear’s’ reputation.
By the second instalment, the narrative stabilises as Carmy attempts to understand the catastrophic initial service at his new venture, The Bear (a playful nod to his family name – Berzatto). Unexpectedly, he ended his relationship with Claire (Molly Gordon) due to stress after being stuck in a freezer.
Carmy’s foremost thought, however, is his ambition to acquire a Michelin star, an intention that prompts a daily menu change. This decision shocks the rest of his crew, including his sister and restaurant manager Natalie (Abby Elliott), his financial supporter Cicero (Oliver Platt), and sous-chef Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), who feels overlooked due to lack of participation in this strategic shift.
As we usher in the new series, it has been established that the bond between Carmy and Syd, while strong, will remain purely friendly. It’s rather refreshing to realise that the narrative has resisted the temptation of forcing an unwelcome romance amidst White and Edebiri, whose friendly rapport exudes a delightful sweetness that leaves one wanting more.
However, the progress of The Bear is not without its predicaments. The plot appears sparse – scattered incidents that discontinuously disrupt Carmy’s musings. Although it may sound petty to grumble about a series fixated on high-end dining when it’s a show about exactly that, the narrative seems to dispense insufficient content to those who might perceive food as a necessity rather than an artistic expression.
Nonetheless, The Bear’s innate dedication to its niche approach is what sets it apart. This series embodies complexity, hinging predominantly on vibes. Should that resonate with you, you’ll find yourself eagerly gulping down the fresh episodes all at once.