'The Bear' Season 4 review: From boiling to simmering, the new season finally sees tranquility

For a show that receives numerous accolades and critical praise in comedy, it is ironic how The Bear thrives in extreme tension. Some might say it's a kitchen comedy; others might call it a family drama. But the driving force behind the show has always been the chaos. Be it in the kitchen or the characters’ lives, everything is driven by disorder and an urge to thrive from it. However, things seem to have taken a turn this season. All of a sudden, there is more comfort than chaos, a complete shift from the initial seasons.

Starring Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Abby Elliott, and the rest of the ensemble, the latest season begins exactly where we left the show, with the restaurant receiving a mixed review from a critic. Unhappy with its questionable future, the restaurant’s benefactor, Cicero (Oliver Platt), gives Carmen (White) and the team a 2-month “parachute” before he decides to pull the plug. With a clock counting down the hours, there is a looming sense of dread in everyone’s minds. For the first time, however, there is not much disorder. Everyone seems to be working in tandem while simultaneously attending to their personal distresses. We see many old friends come to help out, and we also witness a Bear family reunion, one which can be labelled more comforting than the infamous Christmas dinner ("Fishes", Season 2 Episode 6).

Carmen slowly learns to share control and loosen up. Sydney (Edebiri) tries to find balance and purpose, not wanting to lose herself. Since his stint with Chef Terry ("Forks"; Season 2 Episode 7), Richie (Moss-Bachrach) is able to take charge of the restaurant but struggles with a change in his family. We also see some positive changes in many of the side characters. The other staff members have also begun taking charge of their stations and helping each other out in every way they can. The Fak siblings stay the same as always, bringing in their signature lovable energy and charm.

Despite the tonal similarity to the third season, all episodes, streaming on JioHotstar, feel crucial to the plot with no fillers. From keeping viewers on the edge of their seats to comforting them like a warm blanket, the show hits the right notes this season and cements its place as an emotional rollercoaster. Existing fans are in for a treat with references and cameos from past seasons. For those wishing to start the show, do not be fooled by the ‘comedy’ label handed to it. The Bear is a drama through and through, with many light-hearted and emotionally loaded moments, but it is worth the time invested.

Series: The Bear — Season 4

Showrunners: Christopher Storer, Joanna Calo

Cast: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Lionel Boyce

Rating: 4/5

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