You might assume that “The Bear” is the television equivalent of “Citizen Kane” in terms of its critical acclaim and fanfare. However, as someone who had the unfortunate experience of reading a Deadline interview with Jeremy Allen White, the show’s star, where he discusses the breakdown in the Season 2 finale, I can confidently say that the first half of this season has already been spoiled for me. It’s disheartening when we work hard to avoid spoilers, only to have them thrust upon us. It makes you wonder if delayed viewing is the key.
Based on what I’ve seen so far, Season 2 of “The Bear” falls flat. It seems to be struggling through a sophomore slump, likely due to the pressure of surpassing its incredible first season. The captivating intrigue that once held our attention has now been replaced by a tedious and at times boring storyline. The depressed chef, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, and his restaurant’s rebranding efforts, while dealing with workplace and personal drama, were somewhat charming in Season 1 as the characters embarked on their self-discovery journeys. Now, however, “The Bear” is simply too loud, both in terms of audio and context. Its excessively loud volume is amplified by overly precious cinematography and editing, similar to the pitfalls that “Better Call Saul” encountered when trying to replicate the visual style of “Breaking Bad.”
The show features frenzied, excessively noisy arguments where it becomes difficult to discern who is saying what, as Carmy’s crew talk over each other in a Robert Altman-esque manner. They shout at each other as if they’re competing with the roar of a jet engine on an airport jetway. Yes, it does create tension, but it’s a negative and cacophonous kind. Furthermore, do we really need to hear the irritating phrase “Yes, Chef!” repeatedly from the main characters? Is this truly how colleagues in the restaurant industry address each other privately, even in establishments like the former Original Beef of Chicagoland? Frankly, it just seems sad and self-absorbed. The food they create will be quickly devoured by customers who won’t give a second thought to the behind-the-scenes kitchen jargon. Enough already.
In the past, I had the opportunity to participate in a press call with Gordon Ramsay, where sycophantic reporters addressed him as “Chef.” It was tempting to reach through the phone and give them a good slap upside the head. “The Bear” will undeniably earn its fair share of praise when the nominations for the 75th Annual Emmy Awards are announced on July 12. Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edibiri (Sydney), and Ebon Moss-Bacharach (Richie) surely deserve recognition, as do supporting actors Liza Colón-Zayas (Tina) and Lionel Boyce (Marcus). Additionally, the second season features guest stars such as Bob Odenkirk, Jamie Lee Curtis, Olivia Colman, and John Mulaney. However, as of now, “The Bear” has failed to impress. It often feels like clattering background noise that makes you check your watch. The creators need to step up their game because they have a new restaurant to launch and limited time to capture viewers before “The Bear” is removed from their viewing options, with countless other series vying for attention in the vast TV landscape.
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