MIDNIGHT REVIEWS The Bear Season 3 Episode 1
Midnight Reviews features reviews and thought pieces written and edited by a parent, at night, after bedtime.
The Bear Season 3 Episode 1: ‘Tomorrow’
Series created by: Christopher Storer
Featuring: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri
Synopsis: Carmen (White), chef of newly-opened restaurant The Bear, is forced into reflective mood after the events of season 2.
Review: It’s obvious why this first episode of The Bear’s third season has received more of a mixed opinion, compared to the almost-universally approved second season. Whilst the episode is partly about Carmen looking back on the key moments that led to where he is right now, it’s also us who’re put into reflective mood as we see what is in effect a half hour long montage.
It is done so well, however, that this review is going to be positively effusive.
“If it’s too much…”
“I’m good at this.”
“I know.”
It’s this confident exchange where the show lets us know that yes, this episode is a lot, and yes, the episodes that came before were a lot, at least in a different way. The show is talking to itself as well. Perhaps a reassurance to itself, a reminder for us too, that season 2 really did happen and it really was that good and therefore it is a tough act to follow.
Can’t be accused of playing it safe or resting on its laurels.
Episode 1 is a perfect follow up for season 2, a reminder of its quality as well as key moments that were possibly forgotten. It also, inversely, works as an introduction somehow for anyone who hasn’t seen The Bear before (but really, would anyone want to skip the first two seasons?)
Whether fans of the show like or dislike the season 3 premiere, it’s good to know that Storer et al are coming out of the gate at a gallop. The Bear certainly can’t be accused of playing it safe or resting on its laurels.
The montage, after a slower introduction with Carmen organising his front of house, works quickly and jumps backwards and forwards through time. We’re privy to moments that show us a new dimension to Carmen, and moments before only hinted at. That the montage is as calm as previous episodes were tense and that, viewed from a third perspective, Tomorrow works simultaneously as a view of the past and a promise to the future is key to its confidence and, in the end, its excellence. Table’s all set.
The Bear is available to stream on Disney+.
Matthew D. Smith likes to overshare his views on movies and TV shows whenever and wherever he can. Indulge him, and follow him on Twitter or listen to the podcast he co-hosts with Leslie Wai.
