The Bear surprised fans with an unannounced special episode, Gary, offering a flashback to the show's earlier brilliance. The episode, a two-hander featuring Cousin Richie and Mikey Berzatto, follows a road trip to deliver a mysterious package in Gary, Indiana, just before Richie's wife gives birth.
Written by actors Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal, who also star on Broadway together, the episode captures the show's original magic. It avoids many of the annoying traits of recent seasons, such as showy cameos or pretentious restaurant scenes, and instead focuses on the dynamic between the two characters.
While the episode runs at 60 minutes, it feels padded in places, with extended sequences of Richie being gregarious and Mikey soulfully depressive. However, a standout scene features Mikey delivering a miserable, angry monologue that highlights the pain of his character, with Richie's silent suffering making it truly uncomfortable to watch.
This scene works because viewers have seen Richie's evolution beyond this point, knowing the joy he finds in discipline and fatherhood. The episode ends with a jump to the present day, hinting that Richie may be injured in the upcoming final season.
Gary bodes well for season five, suggesting The Bear may be clearing the decks to regain its focus. While not perfect, it offers a glimpse of the show's former brilliance and a hopeful sign for the future.
