Thoughts on The Bear - TV’s New King of the Jungle

Finished The Bear Season 3 Friday night. This show has won best comedy series at every major awards ceremony, and yet I think we can all agree it’s not a comedy. It’s not even a dramedy. But what it is - it’s one of the finest most innovative television shows ever put in that little magic box we call a TV. The story of a fine dining cook Carmy who returns to Chicago to take over his family’s failing beef sandwich shop has evolved into one of the best comfort food shows on air.

Season 1 was okay. Almost confusing in its minimalist stylistic approach. An anxiety filled workplace show about a suicide that leads to a family reconciling. Season 2 was a huge step up, in production, scope, and storytelling. The way the characters are forced to change, grow, and trust was awe inspiring - like a great sports drama.

Season 3 is a masterpiece in style and character development. Think of the 10 episodes as a 10 course meal with appetizers up front and a delicious course of an episode following the previous one. There are moments of such tenderness and kindness, you’d be a monster not to feel utter joy when characters reach out to each other to be the support family should be.

I originally was upset when The Bear stole Ted Lasso’s last season thunder, but this Season 3 was as good as Lasso’s 2 & 3, and if you know me, that’s a real compliment. It’s on Hulu. Bon Appétit.