I've been going through the first two seasons in prep for Season 3 that starts June 27. Season 1 is nearly perfect imo. I loved the grittiness and intensity and how many Chicago and Illinois references they throw in obviously. The soundtrack is phenomenal. I knew the show was for me when they started with "New Noise" and then played "Animal" by Pearl Jam at the end of the episode. I think my favorite character is Richie, but Carmie is the best and most dynamic character. I like seeing Abby Elliott get a meaty role because I always thought she was very underused on SNL.
And, now for the statement that's been made 1 million times. It's definitely not a comedy. I've had moments where I laugh and Richie can be hilarious, but overall it's like 25 to 30% comedy. Sopranos and Breaking Bad had more comedy throughout the show than The Bear. Hell, Pine Barrens as an episode is funnier than the entire series of The Bear.
I'm five episodes into Season 2 and I'm let down so far sadly. I did enjoy them giving Marcus a nice little showcase episode, but the addition of the Claire love interest character for Carmie is so dull and drags things down. This show really didn't need a romance subplot and I'd rather see more of the Tina character or Ebrahim or some of the side characters than Claire. From what I've read, the quality really picks up on episode 6 and carries into the rest of the season, so I'm excited for that. But, the first five episodes just seem lacking compared to season 1. I'm sure the remaining five episodes will make me eat crow and I'll be praising the show by the end again.
And, now for the statement that's been made 1 million times. It's definitely not a comedy. I've had moments where I laugh and Richie can be hilarious, but overall it's like 25 to 30% comedy. Sopranos and Breaking Bad had more comedy throughout the show than The Bear. Hell, Pine Barrens as an episode is funnier than the entire series of The Bear.
I'm five episodes into Season 2 and I'm let down so far sadly. I did enjoy them giving Marcus a nice little showcase episode, but the addition of the Claire love interest character for Carmie is so dull and drags things down. This show really didn't need a romance subplot and I'd rather see more of the Tina character or Ebrahim or some of the side characters than Claire. From what I've read, the quality really picks up on episode 6 and carries into the rest of the season, so I'm excited for that. But, the first five episodes just seem lacking compared to season 1. I'm sure the remaining five episodes will make me eat crow and I'll be praising the show by the end again.