Culture Crash: Yes, “The Bear” Is Still That Good

The Bear is back for season 4 on Hulu, and in it, our favorite chaotic kitchen has mellowed out a bit. With a clock counting down how long the restaurant can continue to exist without something major improving its financials, the stress from seasons one through three still exists, but season 4 shows how even the most anxious chefs in Chicago are learning to process their emotions.

Online chatter about The Bear has been mixed these past two years after what was an all-timer of a season two. And I get it. Or at least, I got it for season three, which was an enjoyable time but clearly not up to the same quality standards as the first two seasons. But I’m not sure I understand the divided reaction to season 4, which I found to be a lovely, comfortable season of television that had the most laughs per minute of any season of The Bear yet, allowed us spend plenty of quality time with main cast, and continued the show’s penchant for megawatt guest stars. 

The Bear is a show, for me, about the power of teamwork, unity, and human kindness. Even when the characters are angry and yelling, small gestures and moments of clarity shine through. And when they work in harmony? The sky’s the limit. In season four, we see our main trio of Carmen, Sydney, and Richie swallow their pride and show up for other people in difficult moments. That’s right, even Carmy, our socially awkward head chef, learns the value of simplicity and pushes himself to participate. And when you set that to a Tangerine Dream or Wilco-fueled montage of Chicago bridges and buildings? That’ll keep me coming back for more every time. And the good news on that front is that the show has officially been green-lit for a season five.

Seasons one through four of The Bear are now streaming on Hulu.

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