In recent years, the surprise release of a new episode of The Bear would have been a significant event in television. This intense comedy-drama set in a Chicago restaurant made a monumental entrance when it premiered, capturing widespread attention and admiration.
However, the landscape has shifted. Following two lackluster seasons, enthusiasm for The Bear has waned, leading to cautious anticipation surrounding the announcement of a new special episode, especially with the final season expected to air this summer.
Fortunately, the new episode titled “Gary” is not as disappointing as might have been feared. This two-character story features Cousin Richie and Mikey Berzatto, both portrayed by Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal, who also share the stage in a Broadway production of Dog Day Afternoon. The narrative revolves around a road trip to deliver a mysterious package to an unknown recipient in a distant city, coinciding with the imminent birth of Richie’s child.
It’s important to note that “Gary” is largely a flashback episode, reflecting on the aftermath of Mikey’s tragic suicide. In the current timeline, Richie is shown as a transformed front-of-house expert, moving away from the petty antics associated with the past.
The episode takes on a quirky road-trip vibe despite Gary, Indiana, being a short drive from Chicago. While The Bear is not strictly a comedy, the humorous take on such a brief journey stands out as one of the series’ more entertaining moments in recent years.
A key aspect of the episode’s charm lies in Richie’s initial portrayal as the quintessential Chicagoan, who vigorously resisted the initial signs of gentrification. However, upon departing his hometown, he feels out of place, exhibiting his usual brashness and loud demeanor.
This concentrated approach prevents “Gary” from straying into the more frustrating tropes of the series. There are no extravagant cameos aimed at garnering awards, nor is the setting a high-end restaurant that prompts fawning behavior reminiscent of Chef’s Table. Notably, the episode avoids the use of montages.
Nevertheless, some familiar elements persist. The opening scenes, while entertaining with the duo’s raucous antics across various Gary locations, eventually lose momentum. A key moment occurs when Richie and Mikey find themselves in a bar, leading to extended sequences of Richie being overly sociable and Mikey grappling with his melancholic nature. While the pacing improves later, it leaves an impression that “Gary” is a strong 30-minute episode constrained within a somewhat uneven 60-minute format.
A standout moment occurs when Mikey, fueled by alcohol, drugs, and self-hatred, delivers a poignant speech to Richie that quickly spirals into uncomfortable territory. This emotionally charged monologue is delivered with the raw intensity of a late-night confrontation. Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal of silent anguish as he receives this outburst amplifies the discomfort of the scene.
The impact of this scene is heightened by our awareness of Richie’s growth; we recognize the joy he has found in discipline and his role as a devoted father. We are also aware of Mikey’s tragic fate. Despite navigating some indulgent moments to reach this point, the scene stands out as one of the most powerful in The Bear’s history.
The release of “Gary” as an individual episode hints at positive developments for the upcoming fifth season. When The Bear falters, it often loses focus on the restaurant narrative, opting for excessive flashbacks and standalone episodes. “Gary” may signal a return to the show’s core themes, also advancing the plot; the closing scene shifts to the present day, suggesting that Richie may face challenges in the next season. Although the show has disappointed fans in the past, if it is returning to its roots, the future looks promising.
The Bear is available for streaming on Disney+.
