Pop

I really had my doubts after 3 or so episodes of season 2 of The Bear. I TRULLY liked Season 1, it was so well crafted - from the atmosphere to the editing to the acting. Just beautiful stuff. Season 2 completely pales in comparison from the get-go. Everything starts being so in-your-face: the editing is super distractful, script is corny and slapstick at times and interactions seem forced.

I started talking about previous episodes in the season because in no episode it's more apparent than in this one. Its flaws become just too apparent. The honesty in the writing that we previously had is pretty much gone. Not all hope is lost though. There still seems to be just enough amber to light the fire back up, let's hope the rest of the season and subsequent ones learn from these weaknesses.

Why are people hating on the romantic element here? It brings a lot of depth, we get to see the very real dynamic of Carm trying to balance the intensity of the restaurant with something that actually makes him feel good. It's all most like watching him free himself from an abusive relationship (his work), certainly he's starting to realise what he's missing out on due to his all consuming passion. Maybe his identity doesn't need to be entirely tied up in what he does. This is a concept that will chime with many creatives, and I'm glad it's being explored.

Its also so wholesome to see him find a kindred spirit in Claire, but still in keeping with the slightly dark realist vibe of the show because you know Claire has the exact same almost toxic relationship with work. It's full of potential but still dark and real. It's great tv and art. I can't help but wonder if the negative reviews about Claire here are founded on something other than what the show presents.

So far, it has been a struggle for me to get through Season 2 of The Bear. This show was hands down, one of the best shows of 2022. The pacing, writing, acting, and emotional weight is what made Season 1 stand out. As a viewer, the camera work and cinematography really drew you in to Carmy's anxiety and trauma, taking you on a journey of redemption and resolution of family conflict from this one flawed character.

I feel that is what Season 2 should continue to focus on. While I am enjoying the character arch of the supporting cast members, especially Lionel Boyce's Marcus and Ayo Edebiri's Sydney, I feel as if Allen-White's Carmy, has now fallen into the trap of tv cliché's as he is given a love interest so early into the shows journey, which seems a bit lazy, story-wise.

It would have been more compelling to watch Carmy's struggle with the stress of opening a new restaurant, which many can relate to, instead of approaching Ep5 as some 80's teen rom-com. I understand, Claire is meant to be a guiding light in a sense for Carmy to stop and smell the roses once in a while. However, I skipped through most of episode 5 because I could not listen to anymore of the dialogue written for the Claire character, which comes off very inauthentic. Not sure if a season 3 is needed for a once unique show. 5/10.

I don't know why the episode is rated 8 !!. It was nothing but a masterpiece. Most people were upset with the romantic scenario and its addition to the story. I don't know why. Carmy relationship with his girlfriend added a deep, dramatic and extensive building to carmy character. The bear still gives me that magical feeling. And the distinctive vibe... literally throughout the episode I was smiling and tense... from the visual aspect, the music, the dialogues and the narrative depth, the camera, photography and cinematography aspect... It's Just So carefully crafted... for those idiots who did not like the episode because the series moved away from the kitchen events a little bit. I'm sure they didn't understand that the restaurant had 6 weeks left until it opened.. and their journey of building and planning the restaurant and their problems was so interesting and funny.. the best episode of the season so far for me.. just 10/10.

Carmy and Claire's Dynamic is Too Real! 🌟

Review: In Season 2, Episode "Pop," Carmy's relationship with Claire is portrayed with such authenticity that it hits close to home. Carmy's hands-on, intense way of being with Claire felt so real to me. I've been in those moments myself-like when you're all in with someone, even in everyday situations like driving to the post station. It's relatable and raw. The way Carmy navigates his feelings and struggles is both frustrating and captivating, and you can't help but see parts of yourself in him. A brilliant episode that perfectly captures the messiness of love and life.